Baked Ziti Without Ricotta Easy

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.

2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.

3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbled. Add the diced onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is soft and translucent.

4. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Add the meat sauce to the pot with the cooked ziti pasta. Mix everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

6. Pour half of the ziti mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

7. Add the remaining ziti mixture on top of the cheese layer. Spread it out evenly and top it with the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese.

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

10. Once finished baking, remove the ziti from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and additional flavor.