Creamy Parmesan Baked Ziti

Ingredients

• Fresh basil (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded)
• Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Marinara sauce (2 cups)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
• Ground beef (1 pound)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Onion (1, finely chopped)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Ziti pasta (1 pound)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
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 onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Add the ground beef, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce and heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, meat sauce, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Garnish with additional fresh basil, if desired.
11. Serve hot and enjoy!