Prep

Step 1: Select number of servings. Servings – 2; Pasta – 1/4 Box; Water – 2 qt; Salt – 1 tsp. Servings – 4; Pasta – 1/2 Box; Water – 3 qt; Salt – 2 tsp. Servings – 8; Pasta – Full Box; Water – 5 qt; Salt – 1 Tbsp. Step 2: Pick your time/firmness: 10 minutes Al dente; 11 minutes firm; 12 minutes tender. Step 3: Cooking Directions: (1) Bring water to a rapid boil. To add flavor and reduce stickiness, add salt (optional). (2) Add pasta and stir; return to rapid boil. (3) Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally. (4) Drain well. Serve as desired. Maintaining Perfect Pasta: To keep cooked pasta fresh for later use, toss with a small amount of olive oil, and refrigerate. Baked Ziti: 1/2 package (8 oz.) Ronzoni ziti, uncooked. 3/4 lb. Ground beef or sausage. 3 cups (about 24 oz. Jar) pasta sauce. 1-3/4 cups (15 oz.) ricotta cheese. 2 cups (8 oz.) shredded mozzarella cheese. 1 tsp dried basil leaves. 1/2 tsp salt. 1/4 tsp ground black pepper. grated parmesan cheese. Heat oven to 350°f. Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in large skillet over medium heat, brown meat until thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in pasta sauce; simmer 10 minutes. In small bowl, stir together ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese and seasonings; set aside. Toss hot pasta with meat sauce. In 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking dish, spoon one-half pasta mixture; spread cheese mixture over top. Layer with remaining pasta; sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Cover loosely with foil; bake 25 minutes. Remove foil; bake 5 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Makes 10-12 servings.