This classic Lasagna recipe is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Layers of rich, meaty sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese make this Italian favorite a go-to comfort food. While it requires a little time and patience to prepare, the result is worth every effort. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this lasagna will satisfy your craving for a warm, delicious, and satisfying meal!
INGREDIENTS :
- For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Ricotta Layer:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Lasagna Layers:
- 12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
HOW TO MAKE LASAGNA RECIPE ?
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage (if using) and cook until browned, breaking the meat up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.
2. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley (or basil), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
- Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
- Spread a third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with a third of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers two more times: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella.
- Finish with a final layer of meat sauce and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil (to prevent the cheese from burning) and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
5. Let it Rest and Serve:
- Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Enjoy this comforting, cheesy Lasagna that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends!