Baked Ziti with Parmesan

Ingredients

Ziti pasta

1 pound

Olive oil

2 tablespoons

Garlic

3 cloves, minced

Marinara sauce

4 cups

Mozzarella cheese

3 cups, shredded

Parmesan cheese

1 cup, grated

Fresh basil

1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish)

Salt

to taste

Pepper

to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and 1.5 cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of color and flavor.