Delicious Baked Ziti with Ricotta Cheese

Ingredients

Ziti pasta

1 pound

Ricotta cheese

15 ounces

Marinara sauce

4 cups

Mozzarella cheese

2 cups, shredded

Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup, grated

Fresh basil

1/4 cup, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Black pepper

1/2 teaspoon

Salt

1 teaspoon

Garlic powder

1 teaspoon

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 bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
4. In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
5. Add half of the cooked ziti pasta on top of the sauce, spreading it evenly.
6. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta, using a spatula to ensure it covers the pasta.
7. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the ricotta layer.
8. Repeat the layering process with the remaining ziti pasta, ricotta cheese mixture, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
9. Top with the remaining marinara sauce, ensuring all the pasta is covered. Sprinkle with fresh basil for added flavor.
10. Cover the baking dish with foil to keep the moisture in, and bake for 25 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
12. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!