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Million Dollar Baked Ziti: A Cozy, Indulgent Comfort Dish

Million Dollar Baked Ziti

A creamy, cheesy baked ziti that is perfect for family gatherings or comforting weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound Italian sausage
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and sausage, cooking until browned. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan.
  6. In a large baking dish, layer half of the ziti, followed by half of the meat sauce, and half of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers.
  7. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

  • For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
  • Let the baked ziti sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Nutrition

Keywords: Million Dollar Baked Ziti, comfort food, baked pasta, indulgent recipes