Directions
First, boil the pasta.
Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before using it.
Boil the ziti in a big pot of salted water until it is slightly firm to the bite (about 1-2 minutes less than what the package says). Drain the liquid and put it to the side.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Mix
In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir thoroughly.
Step 3: Put together the Ziti.
Put a little marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Put half of the cooked ziti in the dish and spread it out evenly.
Put half of the cheese mixture on the pasta, then add half of the marinara sauce on top. Extend to cover.
Repeat the layers: pasta, cheese mix, and tomato sauce.
Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella (1 cup) and Parmesan (1/4 cup) on top.
Step 4: Put in the oven.
Put aluminum foil on top of the dish and bake it in the oven for 20 minutes.
Take off the cover and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
To get a crunchy golden top, place under the broiler on high for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Step 5: Serve the dish.
Allow the ziti to cool for 5 minutes before you serve it. Add some fresh basil or parsley on top if you like.
Enjoy it hot with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a full meal.
Advice for being successful
Cook the pasta until it is firm to the bite.
Cooking the pasta for a little less time before baking helps to keep it from getting too soft.
Prepare in advance. Prepare the ziti the night before, keep it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Make twice as much of the recipe. This meal freezes really well! Prepare an additional portion to store in the freezer for a convenient meal in the future.
Differences
