Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the ziti pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Meat Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles.
- Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella.
4. Assemble the Ziti:
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the cheese mixture, then half of the remaining meat sauce.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
5. Add the Final Cheese Layer:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella on top.
6. Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
- Let the baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
This baked ziti is cheesy, saucy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Pair it with garlic bread and a green salad for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal. Let me know how your family likes it! 😊