Crafting this dish is a simple, rewarding process that fills the kitchen with an aroma that’s bound to draw everyone in, much like the magical smells that wafted through my childhood home.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking them up with a wooden spoon as they cook. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, stirring frequently until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, approximately 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. My mum always said the key to a perfect bake is watching for that golden hue.
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of color, reminiscent of the lush greenery of Devon.