Go Back

Ultimate Million Dollar Baked Ziti

This Ultimate Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a creamy, cheesy, and savory delight that combines layers of baked pasta, rich meat sauce, and an irresistible blend of cheeses. It's perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, promising to impress everyone at the table.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 skillet
  • 2 mixing bowls
  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 aluminum foil
  • 1 wooden spoon
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 grater for cheese

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound Italian sausage casings removed
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • to taste fresh basil leaves for garnish optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
  • Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking the meat into small pieces (around 6-8 minutes).
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to coat the pasta.
  • In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, add a layer of the meat sauce followed by half of the ziti mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining meat sauce on top.
  • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
  • Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
You can add vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to the meat sauce for extra nutrition.
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat in the oven before serving.