Description
Classic Baked Lasagna
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb Italian sausage
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups marinara sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Ricotta Mixture:
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 egg
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Other Ingredients:
12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions:
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Mix the Ricotta Filling:
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well.
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 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture on top, followed by 1/3 of the meat sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a final layer of meat sauce and mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Bake:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Rest and Serve:
Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
This hearty, cheesy lasagna is a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. Buon appetito!
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect lasagna, follow these detailed steps. First, ensure your noodles are cooked al dente and laid flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking. When browning the meat, break it into very small crumbles for an even texture. While simmering the sauce, taste and adjust seasoning. For assembly, use a ladle to spread sauces evenly. The key to distinct layers is to apply the ricotta mixture in dollops and then gently spread it. Always finish with a generous blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan for a perfect golden top.
Serving Suggestions
This classic lasagna pairs beautifully with a crisp Caesar salad and warm, garlic-buttered breadsticks. For a lighter side, try a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. To round out an Italian feast, serve alongside roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. A medium-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or Sangiovese, complements the rich flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
To summarize: cook and drain noodles; brown meat with onion and garlic, then simmer with marinara and seasonings; mix ricotta, egg, Parmesan, and parsley; in a 9×13 dish, layer sauce, noodles, ricotta mix, sauce, and mozzarella; repeat; top with final sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan; bake covered at 375°F for 25 minutes, then uncovered for 15 minutes; rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I assemble the lasagna ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if going straight from the fridge to the oven.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles? Yes. Ensure there is ample sauce surrounding the noodles. You may need to add a 1/4 cup of water to the sauce for the top layer to help them hydrate.
How can I make this vegetarian? Omit the meat and sauté diced mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach with the onions. Use a high-quality marinara sauce.
How do I freeze baked lasagna? Cool completely, wrap the entire dish in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, covered, in a 350°F oven.
Why is my lasagna watery? This is often due to ricotta with too much moisture or sauce that is too thin. Use whole-milk ricotta drained in a fine-mesh strainer, and ensure your meat sauce is thick and simmered down before assembly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the noodles: They will soften further while baking, leading to a mushy texture.
- Skipping the rest time: Cutting immediately causes the layers to slide apart. Letting it rest allows it to set.
- Using low-fat cheeses: They don’t melt as well and can become grainy or rubbery.
- Not draining the meat: Excess fat will make the final dish greasy.
- Under-seasoning the ricotta mixture: Taste it and add a pinch of salt and pepper for balanced flavor in every layer.
Conclusion
Mastering this classic baked lasagna is a rewarding culinary achievement. By following the detailed guide, avoiding common pitfalls, and utilizing the make-ahead tips, you can create a reliably delicious centerpiece for any gathering. The rich layers of savory meat sauce, creamy cheese, and pasta are timeless for a reason. With these enhancements to the foundational recipe, you’re equipped to deliver a perfect, crowd-pleasing lasagna every time.