Description of this recipe This classic lasagna recipe is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together layers of perfectly cooked pasta, a rich and savory meat sauce, a creamy ricotta cheese mixture, and a generous topping of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Each bite delivers a symphony of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and satisfy your soul. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this lasagna is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why you will love this recipe You will love this classic lasagna recipe because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and customizable. The recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, and the step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow, even for novice cooks. The flavors are familiar and comforting, yet the dish is impressive enough to serve to guests. Plus, lasagna is a great make-ahead meal, allowing you to prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready to eat. The leftovers, if there are any, taste even better the next day!
Ingredients:
12 lasagna noodles 🍝 1 lb ground beef 🥩 1 jar (24-26 ounces) marinara sauce 🍅 2 cups ricotta cheese 🧀 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀 1 large egg 🥚 1 tbsp olive oil 🫒 1/2 tsp garlic powder 🧄 1/2 tsp dried oregano 🌿 Salt & pepper to taste 🧂 Fresh parsley for garnish 🌿
Preparation: Step 1: Prepare the Noodles Begin by cooking the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. This usually involves boiling them in salted water until they are al dente, meaning they are cooked through but still slightly firm to the bite. Overcooking the noodles will make them mushy and difficult to work with when assembling the lasagna. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly and lay them out on a clean surface or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. You can also lightly drizzle them with olive oil to keep them moist and pliable.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain off any excess grease. Season the beef with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the sauce simmer for at least 10 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy. The egg helps to bind the cheese mixture together and adds richness. Season the cheese mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper, if desired. You can also add a sprinkle of dried herbs, such as basil or oregano, for extra flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce evenly over the bottom of the dish. This helps to prevent the noodles from sticking and adds flavor to the bottom layer of the lasagna. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping them slightly if necessary to cover the entire bottom of the dish. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by another layer of meat sauce and a generous sprinkling of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers: noodles, remaining ricotta cheese mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Finish with a final layer of lasagna noodles, topped with the remaining meat sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps to create a golden-brown crust on top of the lasagna.
Step 5: Bake Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps to trap the moisture and prevent the lasagna from drying out during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly, golden brown, and the cheese is melted and slightly browned. The lasagna is done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Rest and Serve Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the lasagna to set and the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a fresh, herbal aroma. Serve hot and enjoy!
COOKING Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Serving Suggestions: Lasagna is a hearty and satisfying dish that can be served on its own or with a variety of sides. Some popular serving suggestions include:
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, to complement the rich flavors of the lasagna.
Tips: To prevent the lasagna noodles from sticking together after cooking, rinse them with cold water and lightly drizzle them with olive oil. For a richer flavor, use a high-quality marinara sauce or make your own homemade sauce. You can add vegetables, such as mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers, to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. To make the lasagna ahead of time, assemble it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate) Calories: 450 Protein: 30g Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion This classic lasagna recipe is a timeless favorite that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its layers of flavorful meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal. Buon appetito!
Questions and Answers: Q1: Can I use different types of meat in the lasagna? A: Absolutely! While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, ground sausage, or a combination of meats. For a vegetarian option, you can replace the meat with sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Q2: Can I use fresh pasta sheets instead of lasagna noodles? A: Yes, fresh pasta sheets can be used in place of lasagna noodles. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, as fresh pasta cooks faster than dried noodles. Keep an eye on the lasagna and bake until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Q3: Can I freeze leftover lasagna? A: Yes, lasagna freezes well. To freeze, let the lasagna cool completely, then cut it into individual portions and wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the lasagna in the refrigerator overnight, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Q4: What can I add to the ricotta cheese mixture to make it more flavorful? A: There are several ways to enhance the flavor of the ricotta cheese mixture. You can add a pinch of nutmeg, a clove of minced garlic, or a handful of chopped fresh herbs, such as basil, oregano, or parsley.
Q5: Can I make this lasagna without the egg in the ricotta cheese mixture? A: Yes, you can omit the egg from the ricotta cheese mixture if you prefer. The egg helps to bind the mixture together, but it is not essential. If you leave out the egg, the ricotta cheese may be slightly more crumbly, but it will still taste delicious.
