Easy Lasagna Recipe
This classic and easy Lasagna recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Imagine a masterpiece built layer by layer. The base consists of broad lasagna noodles, ready to absorb all the deliciousness. A rich and meaty tomato sauce, simmered to perfection, forms the next layer. Then comes the creamy magic - a ricotta cheese filling, smooth and luxurious. More sauce follows, building anticipation for the cheesy finale. A blanket of gooey mozzarella and sharp parmesan finishes the masterpiece. Baked until golden brown and bubbly on top, with the interior layers melded together in cheesy perfection, this lasagna is a symphony of textures and flavors. And the best part? You can make a big batch and freeze it for a later meal, pure convenience without sacrificing taste!
- Sausage (3/4 lb)
- Ground Beef (3/4 lb)
- Garlic (3-7 cloves, depending on your preference)
- Onion (1 whole)
- Tomato Paste (6 oz)
- Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz or 1 pound)
- Granulated Sugar (1 tbsp)
- Italian Seasoning (1 tbsp)
- Dried Basil (1 tsp)
- Tomato Sauce (15 oz)
- Salt (1.5 tsp)
- Cracked Black Pepper (3/4 tsp)
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 tsp, optional)
- Lasagna Noodles (enough for a single layer to cover a 9x13 inch pan)
- Fresh Ricotta Cheese (15 oz container)
- Egg (1 large)
- Fresh Parsley (1 tbsp, chopped)
- Mozzarella Cheese (16 oz, sliced)
- Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, grated)
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray (for greasing the pan, optional)
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Brown the sausage and ground beef in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Drain any excess grease.
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes, granulated sugar, Italian seasoning, dried basil, tomato sauce, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 25 minutes, or until thickened. You can add red pepper flakes for an extra kick if desired.
- While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish (or skip greasing if preferred). Spread 2 cups of meat sauce in the bottom of the pan.
- Make the first layer with lasagna noodles, followed by a cup of cheese sauce, and another 2 cups of meat sauce.
- Repeat the layering process one more time, ending with a layer of lasagna noodles.
- Top the lasagna with remaining cheese sauce, mozzarella cheese slices, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Broil for 2-3 minutes for extra browning (optional).
- Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 568kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 32g50%
- Saturated Fat 15g75%
- Cholesterol 118mg40%
- Sodium 1113mg47%
- Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 9g
- Protein 41g82%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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Make Ahead Option: This lasagna recipe can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
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Vegetarian Variation: To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the ground sausage and beef, and instead use a combination of sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. You can also add a layer of spinach or kale for added nutrition.
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Cheese Options: While this recipe calls for ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences. Gouda, fontina, or provolone can be delicious alternatives to mozzarella, and goat cheese adds a tangy twist to the ricotta layer.