Lasagna recipe

Here’s a classic lasagna recipe that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd!

Classic Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Meat Sauce:
  • 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Cheese Mixture:
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• Other:
  • 9-12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
  • Additional mozzarella cheese for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
   • Add garlic and cook for another minute. Then stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
4. Cook the Noodles (if using regular):
   • Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble the Lasagna:
   • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Layer 3 noodles on top of the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, a layer of mozzarella, and then a layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layers (noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, meat sauce).
   • Finish with a final layer of noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the lasagna cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set.

Enjoy!

This classic lasagna is rich, cheesy, and perfect for family gatherings or meal prep. Pair it with a salad and garlic bread for a complete meal!