Step 1: Cook Pasta - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the ziti or penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, but reduce the time by 2 minutes to ensure the pasta is al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Step 2: Preheat Oven - Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with olive oil.

Step 3: Make Sauce - In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in olive oil and let it warm. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in herbs, then add tomato passata and water; let simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Combine - Toss cooked ziti with about 2 cups of meat sauce, ensuring each piece is coated. Set aside a bit of sauce for topping.

Step 5: Assemble - Spread half of the coated pasta in the baking dish, dollop ricotta, add half of the reserved sauce, layer remaining pasta, cover with sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 6: Bake - Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Step 7: Serve - Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley or basil, and serve hot.