Step 1

In a medium bowl, stir together ricotta cheese, garlic powder, 1/2 tsp oregano, Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Set aside.

Step 2

In a skillet over medium heat, brown sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks (about 4-5 minutes or until cooked through). Drain off excess grease, if necessary.

Step 3

To the sausage, add marinara sauce and 1 tsp. oregano. Stir to combine, bring to a simmer and cook 4-5 minutes to bring the flavors together.

Step 4

While the sauce is cooking, in a 2 or 2.5 quart baking dish, spread the ricotta cheese mixture all over the bottom of the dish.

Step 5

Top the ricotta layer with half the sausage/sauce mixture.

Step 6

Sprinkle half the mozzarella over the sauce.

Step 7

Then layer on the remainder of the sauce, followed by the rest of the cheese.

Step 8

Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes or until slightly browned and bubbly.

Step 9

Serve hot with lots of crusty bread for dipping!!