Simple Meaty Baked Ziti

recipe

• Step 1
  Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
• Step 2
  Heat a drizzle of oil on a pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, garlic powder (optional), salt & pepper. Stir & cook, breaking up the meat with the spatula for about 5 min or until the meat is no longer pink.
• Step 3
  Pour in marinara sauce & mix. Simmer on low heat for 2 min.
• Step 4
  Drain the pasta & add it to the pan with meat. Toss the pasta in the sauce to evenly coat.
• Step 5
  Transfer everything in the pan to a baking dish. Add dollops of ricotta cheese on top & spread in an even layer.
• Step 6
  Top with shredded mozzarella cheese & grated parmesan. Bake in the oven at 400°F for 15 min or until melty & bubbly on top.
• Step 7
  Garnish with freshly chopped basil (optional). Serve & enjoy!