Cheese-Filled Ziti with Yams and Zesty Tomato Sauce

This dish is a delightful blend of savory cheese, hearty pasta, and the subtle sweetness of yams, all brought together with a zesty tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a special occasion, this cheese-filled ziti will be an instant hit with family and friends.

Ingredients:
– 16 oz ziti pasta
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 2 medium yams, peeled and cubed
– 1 large egg
– 4 cups marinara sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a pot of boiling water, cook the yam cubes until they are tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix well.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. In the greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture on the bottom.
7. Stuff the ziti pasta: Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each ziti tube with the cheese mixture.
8. Layer the dish: Place a layer of stuffed ziti in the baking dish, followed by a layer of yam cubes. Pour some of the tomato sauce over the top. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce.
9. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish.
10. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
11. Allow the dish to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.