Baked Ziti

Directions

1. In a stock pot large enough to cook the ziti add sufficient salt to create a very salty water solution. Cook the pasta to an ‘AL Dente” state.
2. Drain the ziti, place into a large bowl add 1-2 cups of the sauce and the Parmesan and stir to combine. Continue to add sauce until the pasta is coated but not very wet. Taste, add salt and pepper and more cheese if necessary. Add about 1/2 the mozzarella and stir to combine. Pour into a 9 X 13 inch pan and level.
3. Ladle more sauce over the top to cover the pasta and prevent it drying up while baking, and then spread the remaining mozzarella over the top.
4. Cover with foil. Bake at 375º for about 45 minutes until hot. remove foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and brown lightly.
5. When cooked remove from the oven and let rest for about 5 minutes. Serve with a salad and extra sauce on side for those who like it wetter.
6. You can spice it up by adding thinly sliced grilled italian sausages or sliced meatballs to the ziti.