Description
Cheesy Lasagna
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Cheese Mixture:
1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lasagna:
12 lasagna noodles (cooked and drained)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
Make the Meat Sauce:
In a large pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.
Mix until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer 4 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
Top with 1/3 of the meat sauce.
Repeat the layers with 4 more noodles, the remaining cheese mixture, and another 1/3 of the meat sauce.
Finish with the last 4 noodles and top with the remaining meat sauce.
Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top of the lasagna.
Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve:
Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Enjoy:
Serve the cheesy, hearty lasagna with garlic bread or a side salad.
This cheesy lasagna is packed with layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey mozzarella—perfect for any family dinner or special occasion!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect assembly. First, ensure your meat sauce has simmered to a thick consistency. Cook your noodles al dente, as they will soften further while baking. To prevent sticking, lay the cooked noodles flat on a sheet of parchment paper. When assembling, use a ladle to spread sauces evenly. For the cheese layer, a small offset spatula helps distribute the ricotta mixture without disturbing the noodles. The final bake is crucial: the initial covered bake steams and cooks the interior, while the uncovered time creates the signature golden crust.
Serving Suggestions
Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking; this lets the layers set for cleaner slices. Serve with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic knots, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. For a lighter pairing, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness. Leftovers taste even better the next day and freeze beautifully for up to three months.
How-to Summary
To make classic cheesy lasagna: 1) Brown beef with onion and garlic, then simmer with tomato products and herbs to create a robust meat sauce. 2) Blend ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley for the creamy filling. 3) In a 9×13 dish, alternate layers of sauce, cooked noodles, and cheese mixture, finishing with sauce. 4) Top with extra mozzarella and Parmesan. 5) Bake covered at 375°F for 25 minutes, then uncovered for 25 more minutes until bubbly and golden. Rest before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles? Yes. Ensure your sauce has enough liquid (add 1/4 cup water to the meat sauce) and spread it evenly to cover the noodles completely so they soften properly.
How do I prevent a watery lasagna? The key is a thick meat sauce. Simmer it until very little liquid remains. Also, drain any excess liquid from the ricotta cheese before mixing.
What’s a good substitute for ricotta? Cottage cheese is a common substitute. Blend it briefly for a smoother texture, or use an equal amount of béchamel sauce for a more traditional Italian version.
How long can I store leftovers? Store covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the whole dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the layers: Using too much sauce or cheese mixture can make the lasagna sloppy and difficult to slice. Use moderate, even layers.
- Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the lasagna immediately will cause it to fall apart. Let it set so the cheeses firm up.
- Underseasoning the cheese layer: The ricotta mixture needs ample salt, pepper, and herbs. Taste it before assembling.
- Using noodles that are too soft: Cook noodles just to al dente. They will absorb moisture and finish cooking in the oven.
Conclusion
This classic cheesy lasagna is a timeless, crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for feeding family and friends. By following the detailed steps, avoiding common pitfalls, and using quality ingredients, you can create a hearty, flavorful masterpiece. The process of layering the savory meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and pasta is deeply satisfying, resulting in a comforting meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the delicious results of your effort!