With simple ingredients and easy preparation methods, this baked ziti is hard to mess up! Packed with flavor and lots of cheese, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the beef, and cook until mostly browned. Add the onion, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste and cook until the meat is cooked through, about 5 minutes. Add the marinara sauce, bring to a low simmer, and cook for 5 minutes. Add the pasta and stir until thoroughly combined.
Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Top with dollops of ricotta and spread lightly. Top with the remaining pasta mixture. Cover with the mozzarella and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until bubbling and cheese is melted and lightly golden. Let cool slightly and serve.
Notes
Try sausage, ground turkey, or even pepperoni in place of the ground beef.
