Introduction:
Lasagna is one of those comfort foods that never goes out of style. This classic homemade lasagna recipe is rich, cheesy, and perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner night. With layers of hearty meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, this dish will become a staple in your home. The recipe may seem a bit lengthy, but it's worth every step to get that authentic Italian flavor. Plus, it's freezer-friendly, making it a great make-ahead meal!
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 16 oz (450 g) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (optional)
For the Lasagna Layers:
- 12 lasagna noodles (no-boil or traditional, cooked as per package instructions)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage together until browned. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks to create small crumbles.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the pan and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Add the sugar, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld together.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. If you’re using fresh basil, add it here as well. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles (If Needed)
- If you’re using traditional lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 4: Layer the Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Place 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
- Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by 1/3 of the meat sauce, and then sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat this process twice more: noodles, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella.
- Finish with a final layer of noodles, spread the remaining sauce over them, and top generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil (to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the lasagna with fresh basil if desired. Slice and serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for the ultimate Italian experience.
Tips for the Best Lasagna:
- Use fresh herbs when possible. Fresh basil and parsley add a vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t quite match.
- Let the lasagna rest before serving. This helps the layers firm up and makes it easier to slice without falling apart.
- Make it ahead: Lasagna can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just add 10 extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I freeze lasagna?
A: Yes! Lasagna is a perfect freezer meal. Assemble the lasagna but don't bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes if necessary.
Q: Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
A: Yes, cottage cheese is a great substitute for ricotta in lasagna. For a creamier texture, blend the cottage cheese in a food processor before mixing it with the egg and Parmesan.