Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F, ensuring all vents are open and monitor temperature accurately.
- In a Dutch oven, combine tomato & basil sauce, diced green bell pepper, chopped onion, diced tomato, fresh basil, minced garlic, and BBQ rub. Stir well and place on the smoker's lower grate.
- Smoke ground Italian sausage and ground beef on the upper grate for about two hours until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Remove the Dutch oven and meats from the smoker. Increase the smoker’s temperature to 300°F.
- Shred the smoked meats and add them back into the Dutch oven with the sauce. Stir gently until evenly mixed.
- In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese and an egg until smooth.
- Layer in a baking dish with meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and Italian blend cheese; repeat layers and finish with sauce and cheese on top.
- Pour water around the edges of the baking dish and smoke uncovered for about 20 minutes.
- Cover with aluminum foil and cook for approximately one hour, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove, let rest for 10 minutes, then serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
For best results, check meat temperature with a thermometer and adjust smoke consistency during cooking. Resting is key for cleaner slices.
