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Million Dollar Baked Ziti

Million Dollar Baked Ziti
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Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a rich and creamy baked pasta dish combining zesty marinara sauce, a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, and perfectly cooked ziti pasta. This comforting casserole is easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 pound ziti pasta

Sauce Base

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef (optional)
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Cheese Mixture

  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Boil the ziti pasta in salted water until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and prevent sticking.
  2. Cook the Sauce Base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. If using, add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then simmer to combine flavors.
  3. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix until creamy and well blended to bind the bake.
  4. Assemble the Baked Ziti: In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta with half of the meat sauce. Spoon dollops of the cheese mixture over the pasta evenly. Repeat with remaining pasta and sauce, then top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled ziti for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Notes

  • Avoid overcooking the pasta to prevent mushy baked results.
  • Season cheese and sauce layers lightly for balanced flavors.
  • Use a combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan for optimal creaminess and depth.
  • Let the baked ziti rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
  • Customize the sauce by adding fresh herbs such as basil for extra brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, Italian casserole, comfort food, cheesy pasta bake, family dinner

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/million-dollar-baked-ziti/