Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for the recommended time minus 2 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water, then return to the pot.

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef or pork and cook until browned.

Pour in the tomato passata and a splash of water, then simmer for 10 minutes. Adjust seasonings with salt, black pepper, and optional fennel seeds.

Combine the cooked ziti and the sauce in the pot, tossing until the pasta is well coated.

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, dollop with ricotta if using, then add the remaining pasta and pour over the remaining sauce. Top with mozzarella and parmesan.

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Let the Baked Ziti rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or basil.