Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti and cook until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until softened (3–5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add ground beef or Italian sausage (if using). Cook until browned and crumbled, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
3. Mix the Cheese Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, ½ cup Parmesan, egg, and parsley. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Ziti:
- Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
- Add half of the cooked pasta, then spoon half of the cheese mixture over it.
- Pour half of the remaining sauce over the cheese layer. Repeat with the remaining pasta, cheese mixture, and sauce.
5. Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
- Let the baked ziti cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Why You’ll Love It
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it ahead of time and bake when ready.
- Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prep—just reheat and enjoy.
- Customizable: Add veggies, swap ricotta for cottage cheese, or go meatless!
Grab your fork and dive into this ooey-gooey, baked ziti masterpiece! 🍝✨