Creamy Parmesan Baked Ziti

Ingredients

• Ziti pasta (1 pound)
• Ground beef (1 pound)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Onion (1, diced)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Marinara sauce (2 cups)
• Heavy cream (1 cup)
• Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated)
• Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded)
• Fresh basil (1/2 cup, chopped (plus more for garnish))
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
• 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, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce and heavy cream, allowing it to simmer for about 5 minutes until well combined.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, meat sauce, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Transfer the ziti mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring an even layer.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil, if desired.