Classic Homemade Lasagna Recipe

Classic Homemade Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Fresh basil and parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for layering and topping)

For Assembly:

• 12 lasagna noodles (about 3/4 of a 16 oz box)
• Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside, being careful not to let the noodles stick together.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Add fresh basil and parsley for extra flavor if desired.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Cheese Mixture:
   • In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking.
   • Place a layer of noodles over the sauce, then spread a portion of the ricotta mixture over the noodles. Top with a layer of meat sauce, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella.
   • Repeat the layers (noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella) until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of noodles, meat sauce, and a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Bake the Lasagna:
   • Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil (to prevent the cheese from burning) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine to the meat sauce while it simmers.
• Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
• Make it ahead: Lasagna can be assembled and refrigerated up to a day in advance before baking.

Enjoy this warm, comforting classic lasagna, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in!