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The Best Lasagna Recipe

The Best Lasagna Recipe
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The Best Lasagna Recipe is a comforting, layered Italian classic featuring savory meat sauce, tender pasta, and creamy cheese. Perfect for family dinners and gatherings, it offers rich flavors, a nostalgic feel, and flexibility to customize for various diets. Made from scratch with fresh ingredients, this lasagna delivers warm, satisfying bites that are delicious and unforgettable.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat Sauce

  • 1 pound ground beef or sausage
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups tomato sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage for a spicy kick

Pasta

  • 12 lasagna noodles (regular or gluten-free)

Cheese Mixture

  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings and Layers

  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Optional Fresh Herbs and Seasonings

  • Fresh basil and parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Brown the ground beef or sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the tomato sauce, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer on low heat for at least 20 minutes to meld the flavors.
  2. Cook the Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on parchment paper or a lightly oiled surface to prevent sticking.
  3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with beaten egg, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy, cohesive filling.
  4. Assemble the Layers: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Place a layer of noodles on top, followed by spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture, shredded mozzarella, and more meat sauce. Repeat the layering until ingredients are used up, finishing with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Cover the assembled lasagna with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and bubble.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes after baking to set the layers. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Brown Meat Thoroughly: Ensure the meat is well browned to maximize flavor and avoid greasy layers.
  • Don’t Overcook Noodles: Keep noodles slightly firm to prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Use Fresh Cheese: Choose fresh ricotta and mozzarella for creamier texture and better melt.
  • Season Generously: Taste your sauce and cheese mixture before assembling for perfect balance.
  • Let It Rest: Resting after baking allows the lasagna to hold together better for clean slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: lasagna, Italian recipe, comfort food, baked pasta, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, meat sauce, family dinner, homemade lasagna, gluten-free lasagna

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/the-best-lasagna-recipe/