Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti until just al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Tip: Slightly undercooking the pasta helps prevent it from becoming mushy after baking.

Prepare the meat sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage with the diced onion until fully browned. Drain excess grease if needed. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes.

Make the creamy cheese mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix until smooth and fully blended.

Assemble the baked ziti
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Spread half of the cooked pasta evenly in the dish

• Top with half of the meat sauce

• Gently spread the entire cheese mixture over the sauce

• Add the remaining pasta and meat sauce

• Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella

Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with lightly golden edges.

Rest and serve
Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.