Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta for about 2 minutes less than al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs (if using), half of the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

In a large saucepan, combine the cooked ground beef or sausage with the marinara sauce over medium heat. Stir until heated through.

In a large baking dish, begin layering the ingredients: start with a layer of pasta, followed by a layer of marinara sauce with meat, then a layer of the ricotta mixture, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.

Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and remaining Parmesan cheese.

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Once baked, allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

For the best results, avoid overcooking the pasta to prevent a mushy texture after baking. Additionally, ensure you use plenty of sauce to keep the dish moist and flavorful, as marinara sauce is essential for layering. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a unique twist.

This dish can also be made ahead of time; simply refrigerate or freeze it, then bake when you're ready to enjoy!