Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 lb Italian sausage
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 2 lbs ziti pasta
  • 30 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

  1. Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink, then drain excess fat.
  2. Add the finely diced onion to the skillet and cook until translucent (approx. 5 mins), then stir in minced garlic and cook for 60 seconds.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried basil; lower heat and simmer for 15 minutes until thick.
  4. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook ziti pasta for 2 minutes less than the package instructions to ensure a firm texture.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the undercooked ziti with ricotta cheese, lightly beaten eggs, chopped fresh parsley, and grated parmesan cheese.
  6. Divide the meat sauce evenly between two 9x13-inch deep baking dishes, then layer the pasta-ricotta mixture on top.
  7. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 30-40 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.