Ingredients:

  • 12 oz spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
  • Salt, for boiling water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well blended.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, add cooked spaghetti and sauce. Toss until pasta is well coated.
  6. In the baking dish, spread half of the spaghetti mixture. Dot with half of the ricotta mixture, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella. Repeat layers with remaining spaghetti, ricotta, and mozzarella.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.