Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

Bring a large pot of well salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until al dente according to package directions, usually about 9 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent.

Add the ground beef, Italian seasoning, 1 ½ teaspoons of the salt, and the black pepper. Cook until the beef is very well browned, breaking it up as it cooks. If there is excess fat, carefully spoon it off.

Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, sugar, and torn basil leaves. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors come together. Taste and adjust with the remaining salt if needed.

Add the cooked ziti to the sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9 by 13 inch (22 x 33 cm) baking dish.

Dollop half of the ricotta over the pasta, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan.

Add the remaining pasta mixture, then repeat with the remaining ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Lightly spray the inside of a sheet of foil with cooking spray, then cover the baking dish loosely, spray side down. Bake for 20 minutes.

Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for 10 minutes, until the center is hot and bubbly and the cheese is lightly golden.

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving, then garnish with fresh basil leaves.