Ingredients

12 oz ziti (Barilla recommended for best al dente texture)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, finely diced (1/4-inch pieces)

3 garlic cloves, freshly minced

0.5 lb ground beef

0.5 lb ground pork

24 oz tomato passata

1.5 tbsp tomato puree

2.5 cups beef stock

0.75 tsp basil

0.75 tsp oregano

0.75 tsp thyme

0.25 tsp chile flakes

2 tsp sugar

Salt, to taste

Pepper, to taste

12 oz small-curd cottage cheese

0.5 cup parmesan cheese

3.5 cups mozzarella, shredded (from a block for better melt)

1.25 tsp oregano

0.75 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Measure out the basil, oregano, thyme, chile flakes, and sugar into a small bowl for easy use later. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil.

Step 2: Add the ziti to the boiling salted water and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander without rinsing, then set aside.

Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Add ground beef and ground pork to the skillet. Break apart the meat and cook until well browned with no pink remaining, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in tomato passata, tomato puree, and beef stock. Add the herb and spice mixture from Step 1, then season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: While the sauce simmers, preheat the oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese, parmesan, 1 cup of mozzarella, garlic powder, and oregano. Stir gently until just combined.

Step 7: Mix the cooked pasta into the simmered meat sauce until evenly combined. Fold in half of the cheese mixture gently. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish in an even layer.

Step 8: Top the pasta with the remaining cheese mixture and the remaining 2.5 cups of shredded mozzarella, spreading evenly.

Step 9: Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling. For a more golden crust, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use small-curd cottage cheese for a smooth, consistent texture throughout the dish.

For a spicier kick, increase the chile flakes or add fresh diced jalapeños to the meat sauce.

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

Try adding chopped spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

For a vegetarian alternative, omit the meat and use a rich tomato sauce with sautéed vegetables.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

What can I use instead of cottage cheese?

If you prefer, ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese. It will create a creamier texture but slightly change the flavor profile.