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Lasagna Recipe

The Ultimate Lasagna Recipe for Cozy Family Nights

This ultimate lasagna recipe is a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, featuring tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy ricotta.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for sautéing; vegetable oil can be substituted if desired.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Adds flavor and depth; chop finely for even cooking.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Main protein source providing hearty texture; ground turkey is a lighter option.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Basic seasoning enhancing the flavors; adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Basic seasoning enhancing the flavors; adjust to taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Offers aromatic sweetness; fresh minced garlic is best.
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce The base of the meat sauce; provides moisture and flavor; store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Italian Seasoning Adds an herbaceous note to the sauce; use fresh herbs for more intense flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Brightens the meat sauce; substitute with dried parsley if fresh isn’t available.
For the Ricotta Layer
  • 2 large Eggs Binds the ricotta mixture for creaminess; no substitute as it’s critical for texture.
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Provides creaminess and richness; opt for full-fat for best results.
For the Cheese Topping
  • 3 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Melts beautifully; shred your own for optimal melt.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds a savory finish; freshly grated is recommended.
For the Lasagna
  • 12 noodles Lasagna Noodles The structure of the dish; can use regular or no-boil noodles.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • medium bowl
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil, then cook the lasagna noodles for 8–10 minutes until al dente, drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil, sauté the onion for about 3 minutes until softened, then add ground beef, salt, pepper, and garlic, cooking for 5–7 minutes until browned.
  4. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, simmer for 10–15 minutes, and mix in chopped parsley before removing from heat.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese with eggs until smooth, adding pinch of salt or dried parsley if desired.
  6. Spread a layer of meat sauce in your greased baking dish, layer with noodles, half the ricotta mixture, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, repeating layers and finishing with noodles.
  7. Spread remaining meat sauce over the top noodles, sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Cover with lightly greased aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes; remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbling.
  9. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This classic lasagna recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Happy cooking!

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