Make A Delectable Lasagna Dish In 6 Quick And Easy Steps

Lasagna is often served as a main course and can be accompanied by a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. It's a hearty dish that's perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or potlucks. Lasagna can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated, as the flavors often deepen and improve over time. Overall, lasagna is celebrated for its comforting and satisfying nature, making it a beloved dish in Italian cuisine and beyond.

Lasagna is a classic Italian dish known for its rich, hearty layers of pasta, meat sauce, and creamy cheese. Here's a traditional lasagna recipe that's both delicious and satisfying:

1. Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes

- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

- 1/2 cup tomato sauce

- 1/4 cup red wine (optional)

- 2 teaspoons dried basil

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1/2 teaspoon sugar

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Cheese Mixture:

- 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese

- 1 large egg

- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

- Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

- 12-15 lasagna noodles (uncooked or pre-cooked, depending on package instructions)

- Extra shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

2. Instructions

Step 1- Prepare the Meat Sauce:

- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.

- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

- Add the ground beef (or beef and pork mix) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and red wine (if using).

- Add the dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 2- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper and mix well.

Step 3- Cook the Lasagna Noodles:

- If using uncooked noodles, cook them according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them out on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 4- Assemble the Lasagna:

- Preheat your oven to 375 F (190 C).

- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

- Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.

- Spread a portion of the cheese mixture over the noodles.

- Add another layer of meat sauce on top of the cheese.

- Repeat the layers (noodles, cheese, sauce) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.

- Sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella cheese over the top layer of sauce.

Step 5- Bake the Lasagna:

- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

- Let the lasagna cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Step 6- Serve:

- Cut into squares and serve warm. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or grated Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your homemade lasagna!