Introduction
This traditional Italian dish features layers of seasoned meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, tender pasta sheets, and plenty of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, making it a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Cheese Mixture
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other
- 9–12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Saucepan (for noodles if not using no-boil)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic until the meat is cooked and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar.
- Simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Layer 3–4 noodles over the sauce.
- Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Spoon 1/3 of the meat sauce over the ricotta.
- Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella.
- Repeat layers two more times (noodles, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella).
- Finish with a final layer of noodles, meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. Let stand for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Step 6: Serve
Slice and serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
