Description
A rich and satisfying layered dish with pasta, meat, cheese, and sauce, perfect for gatherings and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- Lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
- 2 cans (6 oz each) tomato paste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the meats: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned, and the onion is translucent.
- Create the sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Mix the cheese filling: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Layer the ingredients: Spread 1/3 of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer with 1/3 of the lasagna noodles, followed by 1/3 of the ricotta mixture and 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with the meat sauce and topping with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25 minutes, or until it is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the lasagna to stand for 15 minutes before cutting and serving.
Notes
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Fresh basil can replace dried for a more vibrant flavor. Feel free to add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.