The Cheesiest Baked Pasta Ever (Baked Ziti 2 Ways)

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.

Add ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the parmesan cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix well.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Add the cooked ziti to the meat sauce and stir to combine.

Spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta layer.

Top with the remaining pasta and sauce mixture. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.

Let the baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.