Cheesy Italian Casserole

Cheesy Italian Casserole 1 lb. ground beef 1/2 lb. ground Italian sausage (if you don't want to use the sausage, add 1/2 lb. to the ground beef) 1 med. onion, chopped 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes 2 cloves garlic, minced 16 oz. tomato sauce 2 tsp. Italian seasoning 1 tsp. dried basil 1/3 C. ricotta cheese 1/4 C. cottage cheese (optional, had it in the fridge and threw it in) 1/4 C. grated parmesan cheese 1/2 lb. bow tie pasta 1 C. shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese Prepare the pasta according to pkg. directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet brown the ground beef and sausage over med. high heat. Drain off the grease and add in the onion and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5 minutes till onion is tender, stir in the garlic and reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning and basil. Stir in the ricotta, cottage cheese and parmesan. Drain the pasta and stir into the meat mixture. Combine well. Pour the mixture into a 2.5 quart casserole dish and top with the cheddar cheese. Bake, uncovered, in a 350 degree oven for 20 minutes. Serve with a side salad.