From craving to table
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- 2
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until just al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- 3
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pork sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- 4
Add the minced garlic to the sausage and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 5
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti, sausage sauce mixture, and ricotta cheese. Stir until well combined.
- 6
Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- 7
Top with the remaining pasta mixture, then sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
- 8
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 9
Let cool for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil, if desired. Serve warm.