Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the ziti. Cook according to package instructions. Once it is cooked pour the ziti into a strainer to drain the water. Sit to the side until needed.

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add olive oil and the chopped onions and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes.

Add the ground Italian sausage and ground beef. Once the meat is browned remove from heat and drain grease.

Add cooked meat back to the pan along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, crushed red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and 28 ounces of pasta sauce. Stir together and let simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool.

In a large bowl combine the ricotta, grated parmesan, 16 ounces of shredded mozzarella, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 large egg. Stir together until combined.

Add your cooked pasta to the meat sauce and stir together.

Layer half of the pasta and sauce into the bottom of your casserole dish.

Scoop out the cheese mixture with a tablespoon and dot the cheese all over the pasta (you'll use about half).

Layer the rest of your pasta on top of that and follow with the remaining cheese mixture.

Top with 4 ounces of regular pasta sauce (not meat sauce).

Cover the dish with aluminum then bake for 25-35 minutes.

Remove foil and sprinkle the remaining 4 ounces of shredded mozzarella over the top. Continue to bake for 20 minutes more or until sauce is bubbling and dish is heated through.

Remove from the oven and let stand for 10 minutes before serving.