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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can match the warm embrace of baked ziti. This Ultimate Million Dollar Baked Ziti recipe elevates a classic family favorite into something truly special. With layers of hearty meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, it promises to satisfy both the palate and the soul. This dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings families together around the dinner table, creating memories that linger long after the plates have been cleared.

Ultimate Million Dollar Baked Ziti for Family Dinners Recipe

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Million Dollar Baked Ziti recipe that will have your family asking for seconds! Packed with layers of hearty meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, it's the perfect dish for any occasion. Easy to make and ideal for gathering around the dinner table, this baked ziti is a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to create lasting memories as you enjoy this delicious meal together! #BakedZiti #ComfortFood #FamilyDinner #PastaLove #RecipeIdeas #DinnerInspired
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ziti pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

2 teaspoons dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 egg

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Ziti: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil ziti pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

      Make the Sauce: To the meat, add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

        Combine Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the mozzarella cheese (1½ cups) until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.

          Assemble the Baked Ziti: In a large baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked ziti over the sauce, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture. Add another third of the meat sauce, then the remaining ziti.

            Top It Off: Finish with the remaining meat sauce and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese (1½ cups) and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

              Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Serve: Let the baked ziti cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6-8