If you’re searching for a comforting, rich, and indulgent pasta dish, look no further than Million Dollar Baked Ziti. This dish takes the classic ziti to new heights, combining creamy cheese, flavorful tomato sauce, and a perfect blend of spices, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special celebration, this crowd-pleaser will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Want to master more pasta dishes for your family dinners? Explore even more delicious recipes on Food Network.
What Makes Million Dollar Baked Ziti So Special?
The secret behind the name “Million Dollar” lies in its luxurious ingredients. Unlike traditional baked ziti, this recipe features premium ingredients like heavy cream, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, giving it a rich, decadent taste.
It’s the kind of dish that feels like an upscale indulgence, yet it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. And while many pasta dishes can be heavy, the creamy sauce in Million Dollar Baked Ziti is perfectly balanced, leaving you feeling satisfied without being overwhelmed.
To learn more about perfecting pasta dishes, check out these helpful tips on The Kitchn.
Key Ingredients for Million Dollar Baked Ziti
To make this dish, you’ll need some key ingredients that elevate the flavor to the next level. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ziti pasta – the perfect tubular shape for holding the cheesy sauce.
- Tomato sauce – a rich, savory base.
- Ricotta cheese – for a creamy, smooth texture.
- Mozzarella cheese – adds a gooey, stretchy layer.
- Parmesan cheese – for a sharp, nutty finish.
- Heavy cream – to create the rich, velvety sauce.
If you’re unsure how to prep pasta for the perfect texture, check out these helpful tips on The Kitchn.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Million Dollar Baked Ziti
1. Cook the Ziti Pasta
Start by boiling your ziti pasta in salted water until al dente. Remember, you don’t want to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce
In a large skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add your tomato sauce and simmer on low for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
3. Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and heavy cream. Stir until everything is well combined into a luxurious, creamy sauce.
4. Layer the Ingredients
In a large baking dish, begin layering the ingredients:
- Start with a layer of sauce at the bottom.
- Follow with a layer of pasta.
- Spread the creamy cheese mixture over the pasta.
- Repeat the layers, ending with a generous amount of cheese on top.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Tips for the Best Million Dollar Baked Ziti
To make sure your baked ziti is perfect every time, follow these tips:
- Don’t overcook the pasta – It will cook more in the oven, so al dente is key.
- Use fresh, quality cheese – The better the cheese, the better the dish.
- Customize the dish – Add some sausage, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor.
- Make it ahead of time – This dish can be prepped and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
How to Serve Million Dollar Baked Ziti
This dish is best served hot out of the oven, with a side of crispy garlic bread and a refreshing green salad. You could also pair it with a nice red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon, to balance the richness of the dish.
Why It’s Perfect for Special Occasions
Million Dollar Baked Ziti isn’t just an everyday meal. It’s a showstopper for family gatherings, holidays, or celebrations. Its creamy, cheesy layers and hearty pasta make it ideal for feeding a crowd. Plus, the vibrant colors and bubbling cheese will make any gathering feel like a special occasion.
Possible Variations & Substitutes
One of the best things about Million Dollar Baked Ziti is its versatility. Here are some ways to customize it:
- Vegan option: Replace the ricotta and mozzarella with vegan cheese and use a plant-based cream.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free ziti pasta to make it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Low-carb: Swap the ziti pasta with zucchini noodles or another low-carb alternative.
No matter your preferences, you can tailor this recipe to suit your needs.
Print
Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Million Dollar Baked Ziti. This luxurious pasta dish combines creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan with a rich tomato sauce, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings. 1x
Ingredients
1 lb ziti pasta”,
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Ziti Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add 1 lb of ziti pasta and cook until al dente (usually 9-11 minutes). Avoid overcooking, as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Pour in 2 cups of tomato sauce and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream.
- Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom.
- Add a layer of cooked ziti pasta.
- Spread half of the creamy cheese mixture over the pasta.
- Repeat the layers: sauce, pasta, and the remaining cheese mixture.
- Finish with a final layer of tomato sauce on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake the Ziti:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the baked ziti cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
FAQs About Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Can I freeze Million Dollar Baked Ziti?
Yes! It freezes wonderfully. Just cover the baked ziti tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, bake it from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 40-45 minutes, or until heated through.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the baked ziti a day ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake it.
What can I substitute if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even cream cheese as a substitute for ricotta.
Can I use another pasta besides ziti?
Yes, you can substitute any similar-sized pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, for ziti.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Million Dollar Baked Ziti
Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a must-try dish that combines comforting flavors with luxurious ingredients. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quiet family dinner or a festive gathering. Follow the recipe, experiment with variations, and watch it become a new favorite in your household. With its delicious cheesy goodness, this dish is bound to become your go-to for special occasions.