Proper Lush Baked Ziti Recipe with Meat | Proper Goodness

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
• 1 large onion, chopped (approx. 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (450g) (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings (225g) (sweet or hot, your call!)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (794g)
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce (425g)
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste (170g)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (5ml)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (5ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (2.5ml) (optional, for a kick)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (5ml)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 pound ziti pasta (450g)
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese (425g) (whole milk ricotta is best)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (30g), plus more for topping
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (225g)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)