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+ servings

Lasagna

A comforting and flavorful classic lasagna with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Cheese

  • 12 oz Lasagna noodles Use regular or oven-ready noodles.
  • 15 oz Ricotta cheese Essential for the cheesy layer.
  • 16 oz Mozzarella cheese Use fresh mozzarella for best results.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Grated for topping.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the ricotta mixture.

Meat and Sauce

  • 1 lb Ground beef or sausage A mix of both for added flavor.
  • 1 jar Marinara sauce Store-bought or homemade.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced for flavor.
  • 1 medium Onion Chopped for sautéing.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing.
  • to taste Salt Essential seasoning.
  • to taste Pepper Essential seasoning.
  • 1 tsp Dried herbs (basil & oregano) For flavor enhancement.

Additional Notes

  • Fresh herbs (basil and oregano) Optional for added aroma.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions; salt your pasta water for added flavor. Drain and set aside.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft.
  • Add ground beef and sausage, cooking until browned and breaking it apart with a spoon.
  • Pour in marinara sauce, season with salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Assembly

  • In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt.
  • In a baking dish, layer meat sauce, noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella.
  • Finish with a layer of noodles topped with meat sauce, remaining mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Baking

  • Cover with foil (sprayed to prevent sticking) and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Let the lasagna cool for 15 minutes before slicing to set up the layers.

Notes

Use plenty of salt in your pasta water to enhance flavor. You can mix shredded provolone for extra cheesiness. Let it cool longer for easier slicing after baking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g
Keyword Baked Pasta, Cheese Dish, Comfort Food, Family Meal, Lasagna
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