Baked Ziti Recipe San Giorgio

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta, cooked al dente, drained
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (sweet or spicy for a flavor kick)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (preferably part-skim)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg (to bind the ricotta mixture)
• 4 cups San Marzano crushed tomatoes (or high-quality canned tomatoes)
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for subtle heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)