Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook pasta: Boil the ziti until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
Brown the meat: Add ground beef or sausage, cook until browned, and drain excess fat.
Combine sauce: Mix marinara sauce with the cooked meat and seasoning.
Layer: In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta, meat sauce, dollops of ricotta, and shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers and finish with Parmesan.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.