Manicotti with Meat Sauce

1
lb.

ground beef

kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1

clove garlic, grated

1

24-oz. can crushed tomatoes

18
oz.

ricotta cheese

2

large eggs, lightly beaten

Zest of 1 lemon

2
tbsp.

chopped fresh oregano, plus more for garnish

2
c.

freshly grated Parmesan, divided

1

8-oz. package manicotti, cooked, drained, and cooled

1. Preheat oven to 375°.
2. In a sauté pan over medium-high heat brown ground beef; break up meat using a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic; cook 1 minute. Add tomatoes; bring to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Keep warm.
3. In a large mixing bowl combine ricotta, eggs, lemon zest, oregano, and 1 cup Parmesan. Ladle a thin layer of meat sauce into a large casserole dish. Spoon ricotta mixture into each manicotti tube and place in casserole dish. Top with meat sauce and sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
4. Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly, 28 to 30 minutes. Garnish with fresh oregano and serve immediately.