Lasagna is a beloved dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to every table. With its layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice, this lasagna recipe will guide you through the process of creating a delicious meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Here is the list of ingredients.
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and the cooking time is around 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
The nutritional value per serving (1/6 of the lasagna) is approximately 450 calories, 25g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, and 25g of fat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- Add marinara sauce to the beef and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Add a layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers, finishing with noodles and remaining meat sauce on top.
- Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Vegan cheese and lentils can also replace dairy and meat for a plant-based version of lasagna.
Serving and Pairings
Lasagna pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and garlic bread. A glass of red wine also complements this hearty dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Lasagna can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not pre-cooking the noodles can lead to a soggy texture.
- Overcooking the lasagna can make it dry.
- Using too much sauce can result in a watery dish.
- Skipping the resting time can cause the layers to fall apart.
- Forgetting to season the ricotta can lead to bland layers.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Let the lasagna sit before slicing for cleaner pieces.
- Experiment with vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Add extra Italian seasoning for more flavor.
FAQs
Can I make lasagna in advance?
Yes, you can assemble lasagna a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when ready to serve.
What type of cheese is best for lasagna?
A combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese works best for a balanced flavor and texture.
Can I substitute the meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives can be used in place of traditional ground beef.
How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?
Ensure to drain excess moisture from cooked vegetables and use the right amount of sauce. Letting it rest helps too.
Can I freeze lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze lasagna. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This lasagna recipe is a comforting classic that everyone will enjoy. With layers of flavor and texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try it today and bring joy to your dining table!
Classic Lasagna
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- Add marinara sauce to the beef and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Add a layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers, finishing with noodles and remaining meat sauce on top.
- Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.