Cheesy Pasta Bake

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. 2

   Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 1 minute less than recommended time. Drain and set aside.

3. 3

   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

4. 4

   Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

5. 5

   Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.

6. 6

   Stir in marinara sauce, basil, and oregano. Simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. 7

   In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese with the egg until well combined.

8. 8

   In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.

9. 9

   Add half of the cooked pasta, then dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta and spread gently.

10. 10

    Top with half of the remaining meat sauce and 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese.

11. 11

    Repeat layers with remaining pasta, ricotta, and meat sauce.

12. 12

    Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and all of the parmesan cheese.

13. 13

    Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

14. 14

    Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

15. 15

    Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.