Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh parsley (if using).
Assemble the Baked Ziti:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the sausage sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.
Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Drop spoonfuls of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta layer and spread it out gently.
Top with the remaining pasta mixture.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Bake the Ziti:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve:
Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Enjoy your classic baked ziti, a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings!
