My Italian grandma used to fix this all the time! We eat it regularly

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## 🍳 How to Make It: Nonna’s Way

### 1. Boil the Ziti
Cook pasta until just shy of al dente. It’ll finish in the oven, so don’t overcook!

### 2. Make the Sauce
In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in your marinara sauce, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes.

### 3. Mix the Magic
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, dollops of ricotta, and half the mozzarella. Give it a good mix so every bite is packed with flavor.

### 4. Layer & Bake
Transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Let it rest for a few minutes (if you can wait!), then dig in.

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## 🍽️ Why It’s a Family Favorite

– **It’s comforting** – like a hug in pasta form.
– **Feeds a crowd** – perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or leftovers that taste even better the next day.
– **Customizable** – swap meat for veggies, try different cheeses, or make it spicy with chili flakes.

And most importantly, it’s a recipe **made with love**—the kind that makes you slow down, gather around the table, and enjoy good food with good company.

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## 🧡 A Little Nostalgia

Every time I pull this bubbling dish out of the oven, I hear my grandma’s voice in my head:
> “Mangia, mangia! Eat, eat!”

She didn’t need fancy ingredients or complicated steps. She cooked with heart, and that’s what made it unforgettable. This baked ziti is more than a meal—**it’s a memory** that lives on every time I make it.

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## ✅ Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth, flavor, and tradition to your table, **this is it**. My Italian grandma knew what she was doing, and now it’s a part of our regular rotation—and soon, maybe yours too.

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**Tried it?** Let me know how it turned out or share your own grandma-approved comfort food below. Buon appetito! 🍽✨