Description
Million Dollar Baked Ziti takes traditional baked pasta to an indulgent new level. Creamy ricotta, tangy sour cream, and melty mozzarella combine to create a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and utterly irresistible. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy meal at home, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With a balance of savory marinara, hearty ground beef, and a golden-brown cheese topping, this recipe is both comforting and flavorful. The layers of pasta and creamy cheese ensure every bite is packed with deliciousness. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, it’s a must-try for pasta lovers everywhere.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil ziti pasta as per package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix the Cheeses: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
- Assemble the Dish: Layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish. Spread the cheese mixture over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta, followed by the meat sauce. Top with remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes