MEAT SAUCE:

1 lb. ground beef
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 clove garlic
1 med. onion, chopped
2 bay leaves, crushed
1 (12 oz.) tomato paste
24 oz. water
Salt & pepper to taste

NOODLES:

1 lb. noodles

CHEESE:

12 oz. Mozzarella cheese
6 oz. Parmesan cheese
OR 2 lbs. ricotta & Parmesan & 1/2 lb. Mozzarella

Brown meat in oil. Add garlic, onion, bay, paste, water and seasonings. Simmer 1 hour, stir occasionally. Boil noodles in salted water 10 to 12 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water. Butter baking dish. Layer noodles, sauce, and cheeses until full. More sauce and Parmesan on top. Bake 20 minutes at 375 degrees, covered with foil; 5 minutes uncovered.