Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 (28 ounce/800g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce/425g) can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 pound (450g) ziti pasta
  • 15 ounces (425g) whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions, until al dente. Drain well.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Add half of the cooked ziti to the dish, spreading it evenly. Top with half of the ricotta mixture, then half of the remaining meat sauce, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers with remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and remaining mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
  5. Cover the baking dish with foil. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown.
  6. Let the baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up and makes it easier to cut.