Ingredients
2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 lb. sweet italian sausage, remove from casing
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/8 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
1 (28-oz.) can whole peeled tomatoes, pulsed in a blender
1 sprig of fresh basil, plus more chopped for garnish
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
8 oz. Penne pasta
1 large egg
1 c. ricotta
1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan, divided
1 1/2 c. shredded mozzarella, divided
Preparation
Step 1Preheat oven to 450°. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, heat oil. Add sausage and cook, breaking up into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until golden, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and red pepper flakes to sausage and cook, stirring until fragrant, about 30 seconds.Step 2Stir in tomatoes and basil and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, and cook, stirring occasionally until sauce is thickened slightly, about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.Step 3Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, about 2 minutes less than package instructions; drain.Step 4Meanwhile, in a small bowl, lightly beat egg. Stir in ricotta, 1/2 cup Parmesan, and ½ cup mozzarella into the egg. Season with salt and pepper.Step 5Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce in a 2-quart baking dish. Arrange penne on top of tomato sauce in an even layer and dollop with ricotta mixture and remaining sauce. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan and remaining 1 cup mozzarella. Step 6Bake mostaccioli until top is deeply golden and sauce is bubbling, about 15 minutes. Garnish with basil before serving.
