Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Place ground beef in a large skillet and break it up with a spatula or wooden spoon. Add onion and garlic and brown beef. Drain off grease.
Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, salt, basil, oregano, parsley, and pepper. Bring to a boil, lower heat, cover and simmer about 20 minutes.
Cook noodles as directed on package and drain in colander.
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Add a layer of noodles then spread meat sauce, 6 large spoonfuls of cottage cheese and a cup of mozarella cheese (or more if desired)
Repeat with noodles, meat sauce, cottage cheese, and mozarella cheese layer.
Add another layer of noodles, remaining meat sauce and mozarella cheese as desired. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
Cook uncovered until hot and bubbly, about 45-50 minutes. Let stand before cutting for 15 minutes so it holds together.
Notes: *Great with a mixture of half ground beef and half Italian sausage for extra flavor. *Let it rest before slicing - it's the secret to neat layers. *Want it extra cheesey? Sprinkle more mozarella on top before baking. *Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 4 days. *Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. *Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees or in the microwave until hot.