Name: Layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound ziti pasta; 1 pound ground beef; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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If you are looking for a comforting, cheesy pasta bake that quickly becomes a family favorite, this Million Dollar Baked Ziti is the answer. What makes it truly special is the way you layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish as the first step to creating those luscious, melt-in-your-mouth bites. The combination of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and bubbling mozzarella turns an everyday meal into something spectacular and satisfying. Trust me, once you try this recipe, your weeknight dinners will never be the same.

Layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this baked ziti recipe plays a crucial role, from the tender pasta to the creamy cheese blend and savory meat sauce. Although simple, each item adds layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish stand out.

1 pound ziti pasta: The perfect tubular pasta to hold onto the sauce and cheese for maximum flavor in every bite.
1 pound ground beef: Adds hearty richness and a satisfying meaty texture that balances the creamy cheeses.
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: Provides vibrant tomato flavor and the base for the savory meat sauce.
1 cup ricotta cheese: Brings creaminess and a mild tang to soften the dish’s heavier elements.
1 cup sour cream: Adds smoothness and a subtle tang that enhances the cheese mixture’s lush texture.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey top layer and cheesy interior.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty finish that complements the mozzarella and ricotta perfectly.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the meat sauce with aromatic depth and a touch of zest.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and brown the beef, contributing subtle richness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the dish.
Fresh basil for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of fresh green color and a fragrant herbal note when served.

How to Make Layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with cooking spray or olive oil. This step ensures the baked ziti won’t stick and makes cleanup easier. Setting the stage right will make the cooking process flow smoothly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Once done, drain the water and set the pasta aside. You’re about to layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish, so having it ready and slightly cooled is key for building your casserole.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns evenly. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy. Stir in the marinara sauce, simmer for 5 minutes, and season with salt and pepper. This rich meat sauce will be the hearty heart of your baked ziti.

Step 4: Mix the Cheeses

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, and one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir well until the mixture is creamy and evenly blended. This cheese combo lends a velvety texture and a luscious, tangy contrast to the savory meat sauce. This step ensures every bite is decadently creamy.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bake

This is where that key instruction comes into play: layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish. Start by spreading half the ziti evenly in your greased dish. Next, dollop and spread the cheese mixture all over the pasta. Then, add the remaining pasta on top, followed by a generous layer of the meat sauce. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese on top to create a bubbling golden crust once baked.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil to lock in moisture and bake for 20 minutes. After this, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese on top melts, bubbles, and turns a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma alone is enough to make anyone hungry!

How to Serve Layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish

Garnishes

Once out of the oven, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil for a burst of fresh color and a hint of herbal brightness. It lifts the rich dish just enough without overpowering the flavors. If you like a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also be an exciting finish.

Side Dishes

This baked ziti stands well on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add a nutritious crunch and fresh balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this dish in individual ramekins where you still layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish portions inside each container before baking. This makes for neat personal servings perfect for dinner parties or special family nights. Another idea is to sprinkle extra Parmesan and herbs on each portion for an Instagram-worthy look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your leftover baked ziti tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating brings all those cozy flavors back to life, making leftover dinner just as delightful as freshly baked.

Freezing

This meal freezes beautifully if you want to prepare ahead. Assemble the ziti completely and freeze it before baking by wrapping it tightly in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adjusting cooking time slightly if still cold inside.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and heated through. Alternatively, single portions can be microwaved until hot, though oven reheating keeps the texture and cheese quality spot on.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While ziti is traditional because of its shape and ability to hold sauce, penne or rigatoni would work wonderfully as well. Just make sure to maintain the texture by cooking it al dente.

How important is it to layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish first?

It’s very important because layering half the cooked pasta in the baking dish ensures the cheese mixture can spread evenly and the meat sauce is layered on top for an even bake and great texture contrast. It also helps the dish hold together perfectly.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative and still create a tasty meat sauce. Just be sure to season well and possibly add a bit of olive oil while cooking to keep the meat moist.

Is it okay to substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for sour cream, adding similar creaminess with a slightly tangier flavor and less fat. Use the same quantity for best results.

What if I want this dish to be vegetarian?

You can omit the meat and increase the marinara or add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a hearty vegetarian baked ziti. The cheese mixture will keep it rich and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with a comfort food classic, give this Million Dollar Baked Ziti a try. Remember to layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish to get that perfect cheesy, saucy texture everyone will rave about. It’s a guaranteed winner that brings warmth, ease, and deliciousness to your table every single time.

Layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 10 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a comforting Italian-American casserole featuring perfectly cooked ziti pasta layered with a rich and savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta and sour cream mixture, and plenty of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This hearty baked pasta dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, offering a cheesy, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

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 to prevent sticking.
Cook the Pasta: Boil the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer the mixture for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix the Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Assemble the Dish: Spread half of the cooked pasta evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the cheese mixture evenly over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta on top, followed by spreading the meat sauce over the pasta layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Bake: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Serve: Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve warm to enjoy the rich, creamy flavors.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit ground beef and use extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.
You can prepare this dish a day ahead and refrigerate; bake covered until heated through and bubbly.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed for dietary preferences.
Adding crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce adds a nice subtle heat.
Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American