Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef (450g)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (794g)
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce (425g)
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional) (120ml)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese (425g), whole milk or part-skim
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 pound ziti pasta (450g)
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (225g), shredded

Instructions:

  1. Cook ziti according to package directions, al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
  3. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, red wine (if using), and sugar.
  5. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  8. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti with about half of the meat sauce.
  9. Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of the baking dish.
  10. Layer half of the ziti mixture, then half of the ricotta cheese mixture.
  11. Repeat layers with remaining ziti and ricotta.
  12. Top with remaining meat sauce and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  13. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  14. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.