Baked Ziti

I am the first to admit that I am an italian food junkie and Baked Ziti has proven itself worthy of being classified as one of the world's best comfort foods. I changed some ingredients to create this fantastic recipe and I hope you enjoy it half as much as I did!

INGREDIENTS:

◾1 pound italian sausage
◾1 pound ground beef
◾2 Tablespoons extra light olive oil
◾2 Tablespoons minced garlic
◾1 large onion, diced
◾1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
◾2 cans (14.5 Oz) marinara sauce (I like traditional Ragu)
◾2 teaspoons italian seasoning
◾Salt and pepper, to taste
◾1 pound ziti pasta
◾1 tub (15 Oz) ricotta cheese
◾1-1/2 pound grated mozzarella cheese
◾1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
◾1 egg
◾Dried Parsley Flakes

INSTRUCTIONS:

Heat olive oil in a dutch oven. Add onions and garlic and cook until translucent. Add Italian sausage and ground beef and brown. Drain off fat.
Add tomatoes, marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and italian seasoning. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 2 cups of the grated mozzarella, parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper.
Drain the pasta. Pour it into the bowl with the cheese mixture and stir until the pasta is coated with melted cheesy goodness . Add the meat sauce and stir together.
Pour the combined mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with two more cups of mozzarella shredded cheese.
Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and let stand 5 minutes before serving. FANTASTIC!