Baked Pasta with Cheese and Meat: A Comforting, Cheesy Delight

Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions, ensuring it is al dente (slightly firm). Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the meat sauce
Cook the meat: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic, and cook until the meat is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
Simmer the sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Prepare the cheese filling
Mix the cheese filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the baked pasta
Layer the pasta and sauce: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked pasta on top. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, ricotta cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top, covering the entire dish.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the pasta: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Let it cool: Allow the baked pasta to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Slice into squares and serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Serving and Storage Tips