Lasagna-Style Baked Ziti

Source-Real Simple Cookbook

Ingredients

• 12 oz box of ziti (about 4 cups)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2lb lean ground beef
• kosher salt and black pepper
• 26oz jar marinara sauce
• 1 bunch spinach, thick stems removed (about 4 cups)
• 1/2 cup ricotta (used full 15oz container)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan 
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (used 2 cups)

Preparation

• Heat oven to 400 degrees.
• Cook the pasta according to the package directions. 
• Drain the pasta and return to pot.
• Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, 4-5 minutes.
• Add the beef, 3/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper.
• Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon until it's no longer pink, 5-6 minutes.
• Toss the pasta with the meat mixture, marinara sauce, spinach, ricotta, and 1/4 cup of the Parmesan.
• Transfer to 9x13 baking dish or 4 large ramekins.
• Sprinkle with mozzarella and remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan.
• Bake until the cheese melts, 12-15 minutes.

Review & Changes-  This had really good flavor.  I liked the freshness of the spinach even in a baked dish.  Of course the cheese was great.  If anything it could have used a bit more marinara sauce.  An easy meal that tastes good.  I'd make this again.