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Lasagna

A comforting layered dish of rich tomato sauce, creamy cheeses, and tender pasta, perfect for family meals.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the lasagna layers
  • 9 pieces lasagna noodles Cooked according to package instructions
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey Can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese Use whole-milk ricotta for best flavor
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Fresh mozzarella can also be used
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese For sprinkling on top
  • 2 cups marinara sauce Homemade or store-bought
  • 1 piece egg Helps bind the cheese mixture
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adjust amount to taste
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish Optional for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the ground meat, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Stir in the marinara sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Assembly
  1. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  2. Place three lasagna noodles on top, spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of meat sauce and a layer of mozzarella.
  3. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of noodles, sauce, and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Baking
  1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray foil with cooking spray) and bake for 25 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving
  1. Allow the lasagna to rest for 15 minutes before serving. This helps the layers settle and makes for easier slicing.

Notes

Completing your lasagna experience may include serving it with a simple Caesar salad and garlic bread. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3-5 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.