. Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.

2. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the ziti pasta until al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions).
3. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

3. Prepare the Sauce

1. In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil.
2. Add Italian sausage (or ground beef) and cook until browned.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Pour in marinara sauce and add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Let simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

4. Mix the Cheese

1. In a bowl, mix together ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, and parmesan cheese.
2. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

5. Assemble the Dish

1. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
2. Layer half the pasta, then half the meat sauce, followed by half the ricotta mixture.
3. Repeat with the remaining pasta, sauce, and ricotta.
4. Top with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese.

6. Bake Until Bubbly

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

7. Let it Rest & Serve

1. Let the baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh basil or extra parmesan, if desired.