Baked Ziti Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried ziti (or penne pasta)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small white onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 5 cups marinara sauce
• 1-2 teaspoons sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 8-12 slices provolone cheese (from the deli counter)

Optional additions:

• 1/4 cup chopped spinach or kale
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook onion and garlic: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sauté onion for 1-2 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Heat sauce: Add marinara sauce to the skillet and heat until hot.
4. Cook pasta: Meanwhile, add pasta to rapidly simmering water (not boiling). Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6 minutes, or until al dente.
5. Prepare cheese mixture: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of sugar if desired.
6. Prepare baking dish: Pour a tablespoon or two of olive oil into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish and coat it evenly.
7. Assemble dish: Drain pasta and pour half into the prepared baking dish. Add half of the sauce and stir to combine. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top. Add 4-6 slices of provolone cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with remaining pasta, sauce, ricotta cheese, and cheeses.
8. Bake: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. For a crispy, bubbly top, place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes at the end.

Optional additions:

• For extra flavor: Add spinach, kale, crumbled feta cheese, or red pepper flakes.
• For a richer texture: Use a combination of ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese.
• For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Ziti!