1 pound ziti pasta

15 ounces ricotta cheese

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

4 cups marinara sauce

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

Fresh basil (to taste)

Salt (for boiling pasta)

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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage for 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Stir the marinara sauce into the meat mixture and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, and fresh basil. Mix well.
In a baking dish, spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the pasta mixture over the sauce. Repeat the layers.
Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

To make it vegetarian, omit the meat and add vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.

Spicy Italian sausage or red pepper flakes can be used for a kick of heat.

Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if desired.

Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

To freeze before baking, wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 3 months.