Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce and Ricotta

Introduction

After a long day of work, there’s nothing more comforting and satisfying than a hearty, homemade lasagna. This classic Italian dish has a magical way of bringing people together with its layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese. When I made this lasagna for my family, it was met with rave reviews. The flavors came together beautifully, and everyone enjoyed the generous layers of cheese, perfectly spiced meat sauce, and tender noodles. It’s one of those dishes that takes a little time but is absolutely worth it, especially when the result is so delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a meal for guests, this lasagna is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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Why You’ll Love This Classic Lasagna Recipe

• Comfort Food: Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for unwinding after a long day. The combination of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella will warm your soul.
• Hearty and Filling: This dish is packed with protein and cheese, making it filling and satisfying enough to serve as the main course for any occasion.
• Great for Leftovers: Lasagna only gets better the next day, so you can enjoy it for multiple meals.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ground beef for ground turkey or add extra vegetables if you prefer. You can also use gluten-free pasta for a dietary preference.
• Perfect for Family and Gatherings: Lasagna is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even holiday gatherings. It’s easy to make in large quantities and always impresses.

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Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Ricotta Mixture:

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)

Other Ingredients:

• 12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
• Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, flavorful sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

• In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until well combined. This will create the creamy, flavorful ricotta layer that’s essential to lasagna.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking lasagna and ensuring that the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

• Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the noodles from sticking.
• Layer 3 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, making sure they’re evenly spaced.
• Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese.
• Top with 1/3 of the meat sauce.
• Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
• Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

• Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil. Make sure the foil is sprayed with cooking spray to prevent it from sticking to the cheese.
• Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
• Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting into slices. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

• Serve the lasagna hot, and enjoy the layers of creamy ricotta, savory meat sauce, and melted mozzarella.

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Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 500 kcal
• (Note: The actual number of calories will vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

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Preparation Time

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 50 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

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How to Serve

• Serve with a side salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect complement to the richness of lasagna.
• Pair with garlic bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread is a wonderful side dish to mop up any extra sauce.
• Add some roasted vegetables: For a balanced meal, roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add color and nutrition.
• Top with extra Parmesan: If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle more Parmesan on top before serving for added flavor.
• Serve with a glass of red wine: A medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, pairs wonderfully with lasagna’s rich flavors.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano will elevate the flavor of your meat sauce. You can substitute dried herbs for fresh if you prefer.
2. Make-Ahead Option: Lasagna can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to deepen, and it’s a great time-saver for busy nights.
3. Freezing Lasagna: You can freeze the assembled, uncooked lasagna for up to 3 months. To bake, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions.
4. Adjust the Meat: For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For a more indulgent lasagna, try adding sausage to the meat sauce.
5. Layering Tip: Make sure you evenly distribute each layer to ensure the lasagna slices well after baking. A messy lasagna can be delicious, but it’s much easier to serve when the layers are neat.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I make lasagna without ricotta cheese? Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or even a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream for a different flavor.
2. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles? Absolutely! No-boil noodles save time and effort. Just make sure to add a little extra sauce to keep the noodles from drying out.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, lasagna can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
4. How long can lasagna be stored? Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
5. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
6. How do I avoid runny lasagna? Make sure to drain any excess fat from the meat before assembling the lasagna. Also, let the lasagna rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the layers to set.
7. How do I know when the lasagna is done? The lasagna is done when the cheese is melted and golden, and the sauce is bubbling. A knife inserted into the center should come out hot.
8. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can mix in other cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even ricotta’s lighter cousin, mascarpone, for a different twist.
9. What can I do if my lasagna noodles stick together? Make sure to cook the noodles in plenty of salted water and stir them occasionally while boiling. Also, rinse them briefly under cold water after draining to prevent sticking.
10. Can I add vegetables to the lasagna? Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added to the meat sauce or layered in between the noodles for added nutrition and flavor.

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Conclusion

Lasagna is the quintessential comfort food, and this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of rich flavors that make it perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want a satisfying meal after a long day of work, this lasagna will always hit the spot. With its easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy a homemade lasagna that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress. Enjoy a slice (or two) and savor the delicious layers of love and comfort that only a great lasagna can provide

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