Ingredients
Method
Cooking the Pasta
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preparing the Meat Mixture
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking the meat into crumbles. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Adding Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and aromatic — about 4-5 minutes.
Combining with Marinara
- Pour in the marinara sauce, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Preparing the Cheese Mixture
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Layering the Ingredients
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce, then add dollops of the ricotta mixture. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the ziti for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnishing and Serving
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving hot.
Notes
Consider using whole wheat ziti for an added nutritional kick or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs. For flavor boosts, add fresh or dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the meat sauce. You can prepare the dish a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving to enhance flavors.