Million Dollar Baked Ziti

This baked ziti is everything you want in comfort food: layers of tender pasta, savory Italian sausage, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that bubbles to golden perfection. Easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!

Servings: 10 people

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45–50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

1 lb ziti pasta

1 lb Italian sausage (or substitute ground beef or ground turkey)

2 (24 oz) jars spaghetti sauce

1½ cups cottage cheese (blend for smoother texture if desired)

1 cup cream cheese, softened

½ cup sour cream

3 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend), divided

2 large eggs

1 tbsp minced garlic

1 small onion, finely chopped

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until just al dente, slightly undercooked according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed.

Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in both jars of spaghetti sauce and simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, eggs, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.

Add the cooked pasta and cheese mixture to the skillet with the sauce. Stir until evenly combined and well-coated.

Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheese.

Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, or until hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden on top.

Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Freezer & Make-Ahead Instructions:

To Freeze Unbaked Baked Ziti:

• Prepare the recipe as directed, but do not bake.

• Cover the assembled baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil.

• Freeze for up to 3 months.

• When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Bake at 350°F for 40–50 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.

To Freeze Leftovers (Baked):

• Let the baked ziti cool completely.

• Cut into portions and place in airtight freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2–3 months.

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20–30 minutes, or until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.

Tip: If freezing unbaked, consider sprinkling extra cheese on top after thawing for a fresh, golden finish.