Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed (sweet or hot, your preference)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce) can (800g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can (425g) tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 pound (450g) ziti pasta
  • 15 ounces (425g) ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
  • 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
  2. Add onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. While the sauce simmers, cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage, and tomato sauce. Toss to coat.
  7. Spread half of the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish. Spread ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta. Top with remaining pasta mixture and mozzarella cheese.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  9. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.