# Components:
→ Pasta & Sauce
01 - 12 oz dried ziti or penne pasta
02 - 24 oz jar marinara sauce
03 - 2 cups water
04 - 2 tbsp olive oil
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
07 - ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
08 - Salt and pepper to taste
→ Cheeses
09 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
10 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
11 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Fresh
12 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet or casserole dish over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
02 - Add dried ziti, marinara sauce, water, dried Italian herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is fully submerged.
03 - Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover with foil or a lid, and transfer to the oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
04 - Remove pan from oven and stir gently. Dollop ricotta cheese evenly over the surface, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Return to oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
05 - Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.
