Print

Million Dollar Baked Ziti: The Ultimate Cheesy Pasta Bake

A generous square slice of baked pasta bake layered with meat sauce and melted mozzarella cheese on a white plate.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this rich and creamy Million Dollar Baked Ziti. This easy pasta bake delivers ultimate comfort food flavor with layers of ziti, marinara, and a blend of gooey cheeses, perfect for a satisfying family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with mushrooms for meatless)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
  • 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (if using) and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Stir the Italian seasoning and garlic powder into the meat mixture. Cook for one minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the marinara sauce and heat through. Remove from heat.
  6. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
  7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the meat and marinara sauce mixture, and the ricotta mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
  8. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with one cup of the mozzarella cheese.
  9. Top with the remaining pasta mixture. Sprinkle the remaining one cup of mozzarella cheese and extra Parmesan cheese on top.
  10. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
  11. Let the cheesy baked pasta dinner rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a make ahead pasta bake, assemble the entire casserole, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half of the marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a creamy pasta casserole variation.
  • This recipe is freezer friendly; freeze assembled, unbaked casseroles for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyfelix.com/million-dollar-baked-ziti-pasta-bake/