5 from 1 vote

Italian Lasagna

This beloved Italian dish has become a staple in kitchens around the world, but its roots can be traced back to ancient Rome.

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Keyword Italian Lasagna, Italian Pasta, Lasagna

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 4 20

Total Time 4 35

Servings People

Calories 845kcal

Equipment

(9x13) inch baking dish

Ingredients

½ lb Ground beef
1 lb Italian sausage
1 small Onion minced
1 cloves Garlic minced
3 6 oz Tomato sauce cans (San Marzano)
1 6 oz Tomato paste can
1 tbsp Granulated sugar (To break tomatoes acidity)
½ cup Water
2 tbsp Freshly chopped parsley
2 tbsp Freshly chopped basil
1 tsp Kosher salt
1 tsp Black pepper
12 pieces Lasagna noodles
1 large Egg
15 oz Ricotta Cheese
¾ cup Mozzarella cheese
¾ cup Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Bolognese sauce: Start by browning the ground meat in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once cooked, remove the meat from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until they become translucent. Add the meat back into the pan and stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a combination of herbs and spices. Let the sauce simmer for at least an hour to develop the flavors.
Cook the lasagna sheets: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna sheets according to package instructions. Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Assemble the lasagna: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of Bolognese sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna sheets on top, followed by a layer of Bolognese sauce. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, ending with a layer of sauce. Sprinkle generously with cheese.
Bake and serve: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Allow the lasagna to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Tips for Perfecting Your Italian Lasagna Recipe

While making lasagna is a relatively straightforward process, there are a few tips and tricks that can help elevate your dish to the next level. Here are some tips for perfecting your Italian lasagna recipe:

Use quality ingredients: Since lasagna is a dish that relies heavily on the flavors of the ingredients, it's important to use the best quality you can afford. Opt for fresh, ripe tomatoes, high-quality cheese, and fresh herbs for the best results.
Season each layer: Don't forget to season each layer of your lasagna as you assemble it. This will ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. Use a combination of salt, pepper, and herbs to season the Bolognese sauce, béchamel sauce, and cheese.
Let it rest: Once your lasagna is out of the oven, resist the temptation to dig in right away. Allowing it to rest for 10-15 minutes will help the layers set and make it easier to slice.
Experiment with flavors: While the classic Bolognese and béchamel combination is delicious, don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors. Add a kick of spice with red pepper flakes, incorporate roasted vegetables for added depth, or try different cheeses for a unique twist.
Make it ahead: Lasagna is a great make-ahead dish, as it actually tastes even better the next day. Prepare it in advance, refrigerate overnight, and simply bake it when you're ready to serve. This makes it perfect for entertaining or busy weeknight dinners.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a lasagna that will impress even the most discerning palates. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make the dish your own.

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