Tender ziti baked with tomato sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a cheesy, hearty dish.
# Ingredient List:
→ Pasta & Sauce
01 - 12 oz dried ziti or penne pasta
02 - 24 oz jar marinara sauce
03 - 2 cups water
04 - 2 tbsp olive oil
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
07 - ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
08 - Salt and pepper to taste
→ Cheeses
09 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
10 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
11 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Fresh
12 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
# Steps:
01 - Set oven temperature to 400°F.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish over medium heat, add minced garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant.
03 - Add dried pasta, marinara sauce, water, Italian herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper; stir to ensure pasta is fully submerged.
04 - Bring mixture to a simmer, cover with foil or a lid, transfer to the oven, and bake for 25 minutes.
05 - Remove pan from oven, gently stir, then evenly dollop ricotta and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
06 - Return uncovered to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
07 - Let rest for five minutes before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley.
