Description
Classic Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb Italian sausage (optional)
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
For the Cheese Mixture:
1 egg
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
For the Layers:
9-12 lasagna noodles (cooked or no-boil variety)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meat Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
Add ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking apart the meat.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar. Let simmer on low for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Layer the Lasagna
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add a layer of noodles, followed by 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, then meat sauce. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce.
Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Success:
Let the meat sauce simmer longer for richer flavor.
Use fresh mozzarella for an extra creamy topping.
Enjoy your homemade lasagna!
