This is the kind of dinner Americans make when they don’t want to think too much, but still want the house to smell amazing. Baked ziti feels warm, filling, and familiar, like a pause button at the end of a long day. You start by cooking ziti until just al dente. Don’t overcook it, because it will finish cooking in the oven later. While the pasta boils, brown ground beef in a pan with salt, black pepper, and a little onion powder. Once the beef is fully cooked, pour in marinara sauce and let it simmer gently. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce, then add half the pasta. Spoon over ricotta cheese, scatter shredded mozzarella, and repeat the layers. Finish with extra mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan on top. Bake until the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned. When it comes out of the oven, the edges are crispy, the inside creamy, and every bite feels comforting without being complicated. #Food #HomeCooking