Million Dollar Baked Ziti: A Rich and Cheesy Delight

Nostalgic Appeal

This baked ziti reminds me of those heartwarming family meals where a simple yet flavorful pasta dish was the star of the show. The combination of tender pasta, cheesy filling, and rich meat sauce is a timeless classic for a reason. It’s a meal that evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and pure satisfaction.

Homemade Focus

While you could certainly buy pre-made baked ziti or jarred sauce, there’s something truly special about making this Million Dollar Baked Ziti from scratch. You control the quality of the ingredients, and the process of cooking the pasta, preparing the meat sauce, and assembling the dish is surprisingly simple and rewarding.

Flavor Goal

The flavor profile I’m aiming for is a delightful balance of cheesy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors with a hint of freshness from the optional basil garnish. The ricotta and sour cream mixture adds a creamy and tangy element, the marinara sauce is rich and savory with a touch of garlic, and the melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese create a bubbly and cheesy topping.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s explore the key ingredients that make this dish so special! We start with [ziti pasta, cooked al dente for a perfect texture]. Then comes the [ground beef, browned and simmered with marinara sauce for a flavorful meat sauce]. We also incorporate [ricotta cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella cheese, creating a creamy and cheesy filling]. The [Parmesan cheese, adding a salty and nutty flavor to the topping]. The [garlic, sautéed to add a fragrant base to the meat sauce]. And finally, the [fresh basil, chopped and used as an optional garnish for a pop of color and freshness].

Essential Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need a few key pieces of equipment: a large pot for cooking the pasta, a skillet for the meat sauce, a 9×13 inch baking dish, a mixing bowl for the cheese mixture, and measuring spoons.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil ziti pasta as per package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Mix the Cheeses: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
5. Assemble the Dish: Layer half the cooked pasta in the baking dish. Spread the cheese mixture over the pasta. Add the remaining pasta, followed by the meat sauce. Top with remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Troubleshooting

• Pasta is mushy: Make sure you cook the pasta al dente according to package directions. Avoid overcooking the pasta in the sauce.
• Dish is dry: If the baked ziti seems dry, you can add a bit more marinara sauce or a splash of water to the bottom of the dish before baking.
• Cheese is not browning: If the cheese is not browning to your liking, you can broil the dish for the last few minutes of baking.

Tips and Variations

• Use different types of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or rotini.
• Add different vegetables to the meat sauce, such as sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions.
• Use different types of cheese, such as provolone, ricotta, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a touch of heat.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Million Dollar Baked Ziti is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a side salad and some garlic bread. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal, a potluck, or any time you want a comforting and flavorful dish.

Nutritional Information (Estimated, per serving)

(This information is an estimate based on average values for the ingredients used and a serving size of 1/8th of the dish. Actual values may vary depending on specific brands, ingredient substitutions, and portion sizes.)

• Calories: Approximately 500-550
• Fat: Approximately 25-30g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 12-14g
• Cholesterol: Approximately 80-100mg
• Protein: Approximately 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50g
• Fiber: Approximately 3-4g
• Sugar: Approximately 10-12g
• Sodium: Approximately 800-900mg (may vary depending on the type of marinara sauce and cheese used)

To get more precise nutritional information:

1. Use a nutrition calculator: Many online calculators allow you to input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. This will give you the most accurate results.
2. Check food labels: Pay close attention to the nutrition facts panels on the packaging of your ingredients.
3. Adjust for variations: If you make substitutions (e.g., different type of cheese), adjust the calculations accordingly.

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Recipe Summary and Q&A

Q: Can I make this baked ziti ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can assemble the baked ziti ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze this baked ziti?

A: Yes, you can freeze it. Assemble the ziti, but don’t bake it. Freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?

A: Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even ground chicken for a different flavor profile.