For picky eaters, you can stir in 1–2 tablespoons of butter after baking to give the sauce a milder, richer taste that kids usually love. If your crew likes a little extra flavor, add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning or dried basil along with the salt before baking. To make it more filling, stir in 1–2 cups of cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken after the initial bake, then return the dish to the oven for 5–10 minutes to warm through. Cheese lovers can sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the top after you remove the foil and bake uncovered for an extra 5–10 minutes until melted and bubbly. If you prefer a bit more sauce, add an extra 1/2 cup of water before baking; for a thicker, heartier bake, reduce the water by 1/4 cup and let it rest a little longer before serving. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of water stirred in to loosen the pasta, making it an easy next-day lunch.
