Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
• Add the ziti pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions for al dente. It’s crucial not to overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven. Al dente pasta will have a slight bite to it.
• Once the pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly in a colander. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

• While the pasta is cooking, prepare the meat sauce.
• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef (and Italian sausage, if using) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Properly browning the meat is key for developing deep flavor.
• Add the diced onion to the skillet with the cooked meat and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
• Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
• Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and sugar to the sauce. Stir to incorporate the seasonings.
• Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and deepen. The longer it simmers, the richer the sauce will become.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Cheese Mixture

• While the sauce is simmering, prepare the ricotta cheese mixture in a medium bowl.
• In the bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese (reserve the other half for topping).
• Season the ricotta mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Baked Ziti

• Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked and drained ziti pasta with about two-thirds of the meat sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Reserve the remaining sauce for topping.
• Spread half of the sauced pasta mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
• Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta layer, distributing it evenly.
• Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer.
• Top with the remaining sauced pasta mixture, spreading it in an even layer.
• Pour the reserved meat sauce over the top pasta layer.
• Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

• Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the moisture in and prevent the top from browning too quickly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, covered.
• Remove the aluminum foil and continue to bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the sauce is heated through. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
• Let the baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.