Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the ground beef or sausage until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, cooked meat (if added), basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Spread half of the ziti mixture in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.

Pour the remaining ziti mixture on top and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Cover the baking dish with foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake for 25 minutes.

Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Allow the Baked Ziti to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional basil if desired.