Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add ground meat (or substitute) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. If using, mix in the beaten egg and half of the mozzarella cheese.

Assemble the Dish:

Pour half of the pasta mixture into a baking dish.

Sprinkle half of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan (if using) on top.

Add the remaining pasta and top with the rest of the cheese.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Let it Stand: Once out of the oven, let it stand for about 5 minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations

Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat or add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.

Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like Fontina, Gouda, or Ricotta for creaminess.

Herb Variation: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor. Try adding fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs.