Baked Ziti with Mozzarella

Steps

1. 1.

   1.

   Boil Pasta Short Of Done** Cook ziti in salted water 2 minutes less than package time. Drain. Toss with a spoon of sauce so it does not stick.

2. 2.

   Warm The Sauce

   Heat olive oil in a pan. Soften garlic 30 seconds. Add marinara, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Simmer 5 minutes.

3. 3.

   Layer Baked Ziti With Mozzarella

   Heat oven to 190 °C / 375 °F. Spread a thin sauce layer in a baking dish. Add half the pasta, dollops of ricotta, half the mozzarella, and more sauce. Repeat. Finish with mozzarella and Parmesan.

4. 4.

   Bake Covered Then Uncovered

   Cover with foil. Bake 20 minutes. Uncover and bake 10–15 minutes until bubbly and browned in spots.

5. 5.

   Rest Before Serving

   Rest 10 minutes. Scatter basil. Cut into portions. The cheese sets enough to scoop cleanly.