1 (16 oz.) box zita, bow ties or rigatoni
1 lb. ground beef
1 1/2 lb. sharp cheddar, grated
2 (16 oz. ea.) cans crushed tomatoes
1 1/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp each salt and pepper
pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

In large pot boil pasta in 1 gallon of salted water until still slightly (al-dente). Pasta will cook more while baking.

MEANTIME: brown ground beef. Before the browning is complete add the salt, pepper and Italian seasoning. DRAIN WELL.

Place in greased casserole pan or baking dish. Gently mix the ground beef and tomatoes, sprinkle 2/3 of the sharp cheddar AND again, gently mix in. Top the pasta with a blend of Parmesan and cheddar, sprinkle evenly over the top.

Place in preheated 350°F oven and bake for 40-50 minutes or until top is lightly brown and sauce and cheese are bubbly.

Submitted by: Phyllis Chittum