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Lasagna with Ricotta and Meat Sauce

Layers of rich, meaty goodness embraced by creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheese, all nestled between perfectly cooked lasagna noodles—a hearty dish perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the lasagna
  • 12 pieces lasagna noodles (uncooked) Consider using no-boil noodles for quicker preparation.
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce Use a good quality marinara to avoid soggy lasagna.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Can mix in spinach for added nutrition.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Replace with provolone or fontina for variation.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • to taste crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Add for extra heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Stir in the marinara sauce to the meat mixture and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
  4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Assembly
  1. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Layer 4 lasagna noodles, then half of the ricotta mixture, half of the meat sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
  3. Repeat the layering process, finishing with a layer of noodles and remaining meat sauce on top. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Baking
  1. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  2. Allow the lasagna to cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers stay intact when serving.

Notes

Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to three months. Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or microwave individual portions.