This dish consistently excites my dinner party guests.

Servings: 6

1 pound ziti pasta
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, sausage mixture, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.

Transfer the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch glass casserole dish.

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.