Welcome to the World of Comfort Food!
Hey there, pasta lovers! Who can resist digging into a big, cheesy dish of baked ziti? Seriously, when I think of comfort food, this is one of the first meals that comes to mind. It’s warm, cheesy, and just the kind of hug in a dish that we all need sometimes. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a Million Dollar Baked Ziti that’s extra cheesy, creamy, and oh-so-comforting. Let’s bring some happiness into your kitchen!
Nutritional Benefits of Baked Ziti
You might think baked ziti is just indulgent, but it can actually have some nutritional perks, too! With a base of pasta, you’re getting lots of carbohydrates for energy, which is perfect if you’ve got a busy day ahead. Plus, if you add in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers, you’ll pack in fiber and vitamins, making each bite even better for you. And if you use whole-wheat pasta, you’ll double down on those health benefits!
Adaptable Variations to Consider
- Meat Lovers’ Delight: Swap in ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage for a heartier dish. Just brown the meat beforehand and mix it in!
- Veggie-Packed: Add in some chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to sneak more nutrients into this comfort dish.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese like cashew cheese or coconut cream for a creamy texture without the dairy.
- Gluten-Free Twist: Try using gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs while enjoying this delicious meal.
Your Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of ziti or penne pasta
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey (optional)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Serves 4–6 people
- Standard main-course portions → 4 servings
- Slightly smaller portions → up to 6 servings
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- If using meat, brown it in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat and add the marinara sauce. Let simmer for a few minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the meat sauce and stir until combined. Layer half of the pasta mixture in the baking dish, followed by the ricotta mixture. Top with the remaining pasta.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy!
Practical Tips for Your Baked Ziti
- To make this dish even creamier, you can mix in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the ricotta mixture.
- Don’t have marinara? Any tomato-based sauce will do just fine! You can also use pesto for a fun twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months for a delicious meal later!
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Equipment You’ll Need
Here’s a handy list so you can gather everything before diving into this mouthwatering recipe:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A skillet for browning the meat (if using)
- Saucepan for your marinara (optional)
- A mixing bowl for your cheese mixture
- A 9×13 inch baking dish for baking the ziti
- A spatula for mixing
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Just assemble everything and cover it tightly (or freeze) until you’re ready to bake it.
- Can I use other pasta shapes? Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer; just adjust the cooking time as needed!
- Is there a way to make this recipe spicy? Want some heat? Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage.
- How do I know when it’s done baking? Once it’s bubbling and golden, and the cheese is melted on top, the ziti is ready!
- Can I add more cheese on top? The more cheese, the better! Feel free to up that cheesy goodness as you like.
Let’s Connect!
I can’t wait for you to try this Million Dollar Baked Ziti! I’m sure you and your family will enjoy it just as much as I do. If you try the recipe, please let me know how it turns out! You can follow me on Pinterest for more delicious recipes and share your creations. Happy cooking!
