Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (454g) ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
  • 1 pound (454g) ground beef (or Italian sausage, casings removed)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup, 150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (24-ounce) jar (680g) marinara sauce
  • 1 (15-ounce) can (425g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 15 ounces (425g) ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

  1. Cook ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef (or sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  4. Stir in marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti with about half of the meat sauce. Toss to coat.
  7. Spread a thin layer of remaining meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Spread the ricotta mixture over the meat sauce, then spread the ziti and sauce evenly over it.
  8. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the ziti.
  9. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
  10. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.