Baked Ziti with Sausage

Instructions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook ziti pasta just until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. 2
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. 3
   Add marinara sauce, drained diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes; season to taste with salt and pepper.
4. 4
   In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, 1/4 cup Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper until creamy.
5. 5
   Spread a scant layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer in half the pasta, half the cheese mixture, and half the sausage sauce. Repeat layers, topping with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. 6
   Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Remove foil, bake 10-15 minutes more until cheese is bubbly and top is golden brown. Cool slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve!