Homemade Lasagna
Picture a cozy evening at home, the aroma of a rich, meaty sauce wafting through the air, mingling with the irresistible scent of melted cheese. This is what awaits you with a homemade lasagna—a dish that combines layers of tender pasta, creamy cheese filling, and a hearty meat sauce, creating a comfort food classic that’s hard to beat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Homemade Lasagna is a favorite for many reasons. It’s a meal that offers complex flavors with simple ingredients and is satisfying to make and devour. While it takes a bit of time to prepare, each step is straightforward, and the result is a deeply rewarding dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Plus, it’s versatile—perfect for making ahead and freezing for those busy weeknights.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Large pot
- Medium-sized bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 (28 Ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 (6.5 ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 2 Tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 16 ounce ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan, finely grated
- 1 egg
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and onion. Sauté until tender, then add the ground beef and sausage. Cook and crumble until brown and cooked throughout. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sugar, and basil. Let simmer on low heat.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse in cold water.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, parmesan, and egg. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and spray a 9×13 inch pan with non-stick spray. Set aside.
- To assemble the lasagna, start by spreading 1 cup of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange a layer of noodles over the sauce. Spread 1/2 cup of the ricotta cheese mixture on top of the noodles, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the dish is heated throughout. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your noodles are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
- Let the lasagna rest before serving to allow the layers to set and make slicing easier.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken sausage. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms between the layers for a nutritional boost.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 450 | Protein: 30g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare and assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it, then bake when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Lasagna freezes well. Store it in airtight containers, and it will keep for up to three months.
Conclusion
This homemade lasagna is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings warmth and comfort to any table. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the cooking process, and enjoy the delicious rewards. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below!