Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or Italian sausage, or plant-based mince)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 (28 ounce/800g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce/425g) can tomato sauce
  • ½ cup water
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 15 ounces (425g) ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups (about 225g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • Optional toppings: pepperoni slices, sliced mushrooms, chopped bell peppers, black olives, cooked sausage

Instructions:

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef (or sausage or plant-based mince) to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Stir in oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavours to meld.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
  6. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Layer half of the cooked pasta over the sauce. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta. Top with half of the remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle with one cup of mozzarella cheese. Add remaining pasta, remaining sauce, and finish with the last cup of mozzarella cheese and any optional toppings you desire.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve.