- Boil the pasta: Cook thin spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. 
- Make the sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly. Stir in ground beef and brown. Add marinara sauce, tomato paste, seasonings, and simmer for 10 minutes. 
- Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). 
- Layer the dish: In a greased 9x13 baking dish, spread a little sauce on the bottom. Layer half the pasta, half the sauce, dollops of ricotta, and half the mozzarella/Parmesan. Repeat layers. 
- Add toppings (optional): Drizzle with garlic butter or sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. 
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden. 
- Rest and serve: Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.