Baked Ziti with Beef: My Family's Comfort Food Classic

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (28 ounce/800g) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 pound (450g) ziti pasta
• 15 ounces (425g) whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided