Ingredients:

  • 12 oz (340 g) ziti pasta
  • Salt (for pasta water)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 28 oz (800 g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 teaspoons (10 g) dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 15 oz (425 g) ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) dried parsley
  • 3 cups (300 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Extra Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic; cook for 1 minute. Add ground beef or sausage; cook until browned (about 7-10 minutes). Stir in crushed tomatoes, herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until smooth.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In the baking dish, combine cooked pasta and meat sauce. Spoon dollops of ricotta mixture over the pasta. Gently fold until combined. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.