Ziti baked in tomato sauce with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, finished with fresh herbs.
# Components:
→ Pasta & Sauce
01 - 12 oz dried ziti or penne pasta
02 - 24 oz jar marinara sauce
03 - 2 cups water
04 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
07 - ½ teaspoon 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 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
# Directions:
01 - Set oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
02 - Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add dried pasta, marinara sauce, water, Italian herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir thoroughly ensuring pasta is fully submerged.
04 - Bring mixture to a simmer. Cover with foil or an oven-safe lid and place in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
05 - Remove the pan from oven and stir gently. Spoon ricotta cheese dollops over the surface, then sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
06 - Return the pan to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
07 - Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
