Best Italian Bake

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, water, sugar, basil, and salt. Simmer, uncovered, for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta or cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, pepper, and egg; mix well.
5. Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer with 3 noodles, half of the cheese mixture, 1 cup mozzarella, and 1 cup meat sauce. Repeat layers.
6. Top with remaining noodles, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Cover and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
8. Let stand for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Note: You can customize this lasagna by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of cheese. Enjoy!