Description
Classic Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb Italian sausage (optional)
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
For the Cheese Mixture:
1 egg
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
For the Layers:
9-12 lasagna noodles (cooked or no-boil variety)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meat Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
Add ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking apart the meat.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar. Let simmer on low for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Layer the Lasagna
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add a layer of noodles, followed by 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, then meat sauce. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce.
Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Success:
Let the meat sauce simmer longer for richer flavor.
Use fresh mozzarella for an extra creamy topping.
Enjoy your homemade lasagna!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed process for perfect layering. After cooking your meat sauce and mixing your cheeses, assemble in a 9×13-inch dish. Start with a thin sauce layer to prevent sticking. Add a single layer of noodles, ensuring they don’t overlap. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles using a spatula. Add a generous layer of meat sauce. Repeat this sequence—noodles, cheese, sauce—two more times. Your final layer should be meat sauce, topped with the reserved shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Covering with foil for the first half of baking ensures even cooking without drying out the top.
Serving Suggestions
Let the lasagna rest for a full 10-15 minutes after baking; this allows the layers to set for clean slices. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette and warm, crusty garlic bread. For a complete Italian feast, pair with a light, acidic red wine like Chianti to cut through the richness of the cheese and meat.
How-to Summary
To make classic lasagna: 1) Sauté onions and garlic, brown the meats, then simmer with tomatoes and herbs to create a robust sauce. 2) Blend ricotta, egg, mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley for the cheese filling. 3) In a baking dish, alternate layers of sauce, noodles, and cheese mixture, finishing with sauce and a cheese topping. 4) Bake covered at 375°F for 25 minutes, then uncovered for 15 minutes until golden. Rest before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make 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 noodles? Yes, they work perfectly. Ensure there is ample sauce around them, as they absorb liquid during baking.
How do I freeze lasagna? Bake the lasagna, let it cool completely, then wrap the entire dish or individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I substitute for ricotta? Cottage cheese (blended smooth) or béchamel sauce are excellent traditional alternatives for a different texture.
Why is my lasagna watery? This is often due to wet ingredients like fresh ricotta or under-simmered sauce. Always drain ricotta in a fine-mesh strainer and ensure your meat sauce is thick before assembling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling layers: Using too much cheese or sauce between layers can cause the lasagna to slide apart when sliced.
- Skipping the sauce on the bottom: A thin base layer of sauce is crucial to prevent noodles from sticking to the dish.
- Cutting immediately: Slicing right out of the oven results in a soupy mess. The resting period is non-negotiable for firm layers.
- Using cold cheese mixture: Bring your ricotta to room temperature for easier, smoother spreading.
Conclusion
Mastering this classic lasagna recipe is about technique as much as ingredients. By simmering a flavorful meat sauce, creating a creamy cheese blend, and layering with care, you create a comforting, impressive dish. Avoiding common pitfalls like skipping the rest time ensures a perfect result every time. This hearty lasagna is a timeless crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners and special gatherings alike.