Million Dollar Baked Ziti Recipe
A cheesy, savory, and crowd-pleasing baked ziti recipe that is perfect every time. This comforting Italian classic combines tender pasta with rich marinara sauce and layers of gooey cheese.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 4 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the ziti until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth.
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, dollops of ricotta mixture, and sprinkle with mozzarella.
- Repeat layering with remaining ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta mixture, and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil.
Notes
- For best results, use whole milk cheeses for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
- Adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
- Fresh basil adds a bright, fresh flavor to the finished dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: baked ziti, Italian recipe, pasta bake, cheesy pasta, comfort food, family dinner, crowd-pleaser
Find it online: https://www.meltitclean.com/million-dollar-baked-ziti-recipe/