Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Make the meat sauce:
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onion over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
3. Mix the creamy layer:
In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, ricotta, egg, and garlic powder until smooth.
4. Assemble the ziti:
- Spread half of the cooked pasta in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Dollop and gently spread all of the creamy mixture over the pasta.
- Spoon half of the meat sauce over the creamy layer.
- Add the remaining pasta, followed by the rest of the meat sauce.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake it:
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
6. Let it rest:
Cool for about 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Serving Tips
Pair with:
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette
- A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables for balance
Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6–8
- Calories: ~525 per serving (depending on cheese and meat used)
Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Baked Ziti is the kind of dish you bring to potlucks, serve at Sunday dinner, or just keep in the fridge for when comfort food calls. It freezes beautifully and tastes even better the next day. If you’ve been looking for your new favorite pasta bake—this is it.
