Go Back

Ultimate Million Dollar Baked Ziti

This Ultimate Million Dollar Baked Ziti is a crowd-pleaser perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. It features a rich blend of cheeses, a flavorful meat sauce, and perfectly cooked ziti, all baked to bubbly perfection.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 large skillet
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 aluminum foil
  • 1 wooden spoon
  • 1 set measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound Italian sausage Casings removed.
  • 1 unit onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • to taste unit salt
  • to taste unit pepper
  • 1 unit egg

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
  • In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the ziti mixture, then spread the ricotta mixture over the top, and finally layer the remaining ziti mixture.
  • Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
When storing leftovers, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The baked ziti can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Feel free to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving for added flavor and presentation.