If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that delivers layers of creamy, cheesy goodness, Million Dollar Baked Ziti is your answer. This hearty pasta casserole combines tender ziti noodles, seasoned ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and a luscious cheese mixture that makes every bite taste like a million bucks. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary weeknight dinner into something memorable.

Perfect for easy weeknight meals, family gatherings, or even potlucks, this baked ziti recipe has all the crowd-pleasing appeal of lasagna—without the extra work. Think gooey melted mozzarella, tangy ricotta, and a hint of sour cream for creaminess, baked together until bubbly and golden. Whether you serve it as the centerpiece of a family dinner or as a hearty dish for parties, this is comfort food at its finest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike devour this cheesy baked ziti.
Easy prep: Much simpler than lasagna but with all the same flavors.
Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked when needed.
Party-perfect: A big casserole dish easily feeds a crowd.
Irresistibly cheesy: Layers of mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and sour cream create a rich, decadent flavor.
Comfort food classic: Perfect for cozy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredient Breakdown

Ziti Pasta: The foundation of the dish—its tubular shape holds sauce and cheese beautifully.
Ground Beef: Adds hearty protein and savory flavor. You can also mix in sausage for a spicier kick.
Marinara Sauce: Brings tangy tomato flavor and moisture. Choose a high-quality sauce or make your own for extra freshness.
Ricotta Cheese: Provides a creamy, slightly sweet layer that balances the richness.
Sour Cream: Adds tang and makes the cheese mixture extra creamy, giving that “million dollar” taste.
Egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture so it stays structured when baked.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy layers that make every bite irresistible.
Parmesan Cheese: Offers a salty, nutty punch that elevates the flavors.
Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder): Simple spices that deepen the overall taste without overpowering the dish.

Pro Tips

Cook pasta al dente: The ziti will continue to cook in the oven, so undercook slightly to avoid mushy pasta.
Drain meat thoroughly: Removing excess grease keeps the casserole from becoming too heavy or oily.
Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Rest before serving: Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes after baking so it sets up and slices neatly.
Layer strategically: Spread a little sauce on the bottom of the baking dish before adding pasta to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Swaps or Variations

Protein options: Substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for beef.
Cheese choices: Try cottage cheese instead of ricotta or add provolone for more depth.
Vegetable boost: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes, spicy sausage, or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free ziti pasta and check sauce ingredients for gluten-free labeling.

Serving Suggestions

Million Dollar Baked Ziti is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with lighter sides makes the meal complete. Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in Italian vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad. Garlic bread or warm breadsticks are the perfect companion for soaking up the cheesy tomato sauce. For larger gatherings, offer roasted vegetables, antipasto platters, or a simple soup like minestrone to balance the richness.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips

This baked ziti is a dream for meal prep and leftovers. To make ahead, assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding an extra 10–15 minutes if it’s straight from the fridge.

For storage, leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm larger portions in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For best results, sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top before reheating to refresh the cheesy layer.

To freeze, assemble the dish without baking, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Cultural or Historical Notes

Baked pasta dishes have roots in Italian-American cooking, drawing inspiration from classic lasagna. Million Dollar Baked Ziti earned its name because the addition of sour cream, ricotta, and extra mozzarella creates a “rich” and indulgent flavor—like a million-dollar bite. While traditional Italian ziti al forno is simpler, this Americanized version has become a staple of family gatherings and potluck dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meat and add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a hearty vegetarian version.

Can I use penne instead of ziti?
Absolutely. Penne pasta has a similar shape and works just as well in this recipe.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, just use two large baking dishes. Perfect for holidays, parties, or feeding a big family.

What’s the difference between baked ziti and lasagna?
Lasagna uses layered sheets of pasta, while baked ziti layers short-cut pasta with sauce and cheese. Ziti is easier to assemble but has the same comforting flavors.

How do I keep baked ziti from drying out?
Make sure to use enough

Emily