Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or Italian sausage), cooked and drained of excess fat
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (5ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (2.5ml)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (1.25ml) optional, for a little kick
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 (24-ounce) jar (680g) marinara sauce, your favorite brand
  • 1 (12-ounce) package (340g) egg noodles, cooked according to package directions and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) container (425g) ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Optional Toppings: pepperoni slices, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, black olives

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
  5. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the cooked egg noodles, then spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
  6. Top with the remaining noodles, remaining meat sauce, and remaining mozzarella cheese. Add your favourite pizza toppings (such as pepperoni slices, sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, black olives)
  7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.