Baked Ziti with Sausage and Mozzarella

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.

Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well.

In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, sausage tomato sauce, and ricotta cheese mixture. Toss gently to combine.

Pour half of the ziti mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.

Pour the remaining ziti mixture over the mozzarella cheese. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.