Description
Classic Lasagna
Ingredients:
12 lasagna noodles
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, sliced
1 jar marinara sauce
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Beef: In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and cook until softened.
Add the Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil.
Assemble the Lasagna: In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of mozzarella on top.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve: Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil.
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful classic lasagna!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect layering. First, ensure your noodles are cooked al dente and laid flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking. For the meat sauce, cook the beef until no pink remains, then add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking for 5-7 minutes until soft. Incorporate the marinara and simmer to thicken. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, start with a thin layer of meat sauce to prevent sticking. Add 3 noodles, then spread one-third of the ricotta mixture evenly over them. Sprinkle with one-third of the mozzarella. Repeat this sequence two more times. Your final top layer should be the remaining meat sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking; this is crucial for clean slices. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette and warm, garlic-buttered breadsticks. For a lighter side, roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli pair beautifully. A medium-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti, complements the rich flavors perfectly.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook noodles al dente. Brown beef with veggies, add sauce, and simmer. Mix ricotta, egg, Parmesan, and basil. In a dish, layer sauce, noodles, ricotta mix, and mozzarella. Repeat, ending with cheese. Bake covered at 375°F for 30 mins, then uncovered for 10-15 mins until 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. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles? Yes. Ensure your sauce has extra liquid and spread it thinly on the noodles. You may need to increase the covered baking time slightly.
How can I make it vegetarian? Omit the ground beef. Add finely chopped mushrooms, spinach, or a plant-based ground meat alternative to the sauce for heartiness.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Why is my lasagna watery? This is often due to vegetables (like zucchini) releasing moisture. Sauté your veggies until most liquid evaporates before adding the sauce, and let the assembled dish sit for 10 minutes before baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the noodles: They will continue to cook in the oven. Cook only until al dente.
- Skipping the resting time: Cutting immediately causes the layers to slide apart. Let it set.
- Using sauce that’s too thin: A watery sauce leads to a soupy lasagna. Simmer your sauce to thicken it first.
- Not seasoning each component: Taste and season your meat sauce and ricotta mixture separately with salt and pepper.
Conclusion
Mastering this classic lasagna is a rewarding culinary achievement. By following the detailed steps, avoiding common pitfalls, and utilizing the make-ahead tips, you can create a comforting, crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any meal. The key lies in careful layering, proper seasoning, and allowing the flavors to meld. With this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped to bake a perfectly structured, deeply flavorful lasagna every time. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!