Tender ziti baked with marinara, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a comforting main course.
# Components:
→ Pasta & Sauce
01 - 12 ounces dried ziti or penne pasta
02 - 24 ounces marinara sauce
03 - 2 cups water
04 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs blend (basil, oregano, thyme)
07 - ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
08 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Cheeses
09 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
10 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
11 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Fresh Garnish
12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
# Method:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. In a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
02 - Add dried ziti, marinara sauce, water, Italian herbs, crushed red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine and ensure pasta is fully submerged.
03 - Bring mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover skillet with foil or an oven-safe lid and transfer to oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
04 - Remove pan from oven and gently stir. Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese over the pasta and evenly sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
05 - Return the pan uncovered to the oven and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and golden.
06 - Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.
