Savory baked ziti layered with marinara, cheeses, and herbs, all cooked together in a single pan.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta & Sauce
01 - 12 oz dried ziti or penne pasta
02 - 24 oz marinara sauce
03 - 2 cups water
04 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
07 - ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
08 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Cheeses
09 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
10 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
11 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Fresh
12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
# Method Steps:
01 - Set the oven to 400°F and allow it to preheat fully.
02 - In a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add dried pasta, marinara sauce, water, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to ensure pasta is fully submerged.
04 - Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop, cover the dish with foil or a lid, then transfer it to the oven and bake for 25 minutes.
05 - Remove the pan from the oven, gently stir the contents, then evenly dot the ricotta cheese on top and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
06 - Return the dish uncovered to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
07 - Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley and serving.
