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Watch the Full Step-by-Step

Total Time :1 hour
Servings: 8

INGREDIENTS
 

  • 1 pound/450 grams ziti
  • 1 pound/450 grams ground beef
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 28-ounce/800-gram can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 14-ounce/400-gram can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup/240 grams ricotta
  • 2 cups/200 grams shredded mozzarella, divided
  • ½ cup/50 grams grated Parmesan, divided
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped, plus more for serving
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Heat oven to 375°F/190°C.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until just shy of al dente. Drain.
  • In a bowl, stir together ricotta, 1 cup/100 grams mozzarella, oregano, basil, parsley, garlic, and heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up, until browned. Add bell pepper, onion, and garlic and cook until softened. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer until slightly thickened, 10 to 15 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the ricotta mixture and stir to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a baking dish. Add half the pasta, then half the remaining sauce. Repeat, finishing with sauce. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  • Bake until bubbling, about 20 minutes. Broil on low until lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Let rest briefly, then top with parsley and serve.