1. Heat the Oven & Prep the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (or a similar-sized oven-safe skillet).
2. Cook the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Simmer the Sauce
To the skillet, add the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer together for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Mix the Cheese Layer
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, cottage cheese (if using), 1 cup of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley. Stir until well blended.
5. Layer the Dip
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First Layer: Spread half of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom of your prepared dish.
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Second Layer: Dollop and carefully spread the entire cheese mixture over the sauce.
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Third Layer: Top with the remaining meat sauce.
6. Bake to Bubbly Perfection
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges.
💡 Pro-Tips & Variations
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a gentle heat.
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Veggie Boost: Sauté chopped mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers and mix them into the meat sauce or the cheese layer.
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Pesto Swirl: For an extra layer of flavor, add a few dollops of pesto between the cheese and top sauce layers before baking.
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Make Ahead: Assemble the dip (without baking) up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.
