Baked Ziti with Side Salad

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil for the pasta.

2. 2

   Once the water is boiling, add 2 tablespoons of salt. Cook the ziti for 1-2 minutes less than the package directions for a firm, al dente texture. Drain the pasta well and set it aside. Do not rinse.

3. 3

   While the pasta cooks, start the sauce. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking the meat apart with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain off any excess grease.

4. 4

   Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), 1 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

5. 5

   Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it gently simmer for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. 6

   In a medium bowl, prepare the ricotta filling. Whisk together the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the Parmesan cheese, the beaten egg, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt until smooth.

7. 7

   To assemble, add the drained pasta to the pot with the meat sauce and stir gently to coat everything. Spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Dollop the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta layer and gently spread it out. Top with the remaining pasta and sauce mixture. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

8. 8

   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.

9. 9

   Remove from the oven and let the baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set, making it easier to cut and serve clean slices. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.