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Classic Lasagna

Classic Lasagna That Feels Like a Cozy Italian Hug

Classic Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, featuring layers of savory meat sauce and creamy ricotta.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Sweet Italian Sausage Substitution: Ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef Substitution: Use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 Chopped Onion Sauté until soft for best results.
  • 2 Garlic Cloves, Mashed Fresh or jarred garlic both work well.
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes Substitution: Canned diced tomatoes for a chunkier sauce.
  • 15 ounces Tomato Sauce No direct substitution.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste No direct substitution.
  • 1/2 cup Water Can be replaced with red wine for added flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Granulated Sugar Tip: Use a dash of honey if desired.
  • Fresh Parsley Dried parsley can be used in a pinch, but fresh is preferred.
  • Dried Basil No direct substitutions.
  • Italian Seasoning No direct substitutions.
  • Fennel Seeds No direct substitutions.
  • Salt Adjust to taste according to dietary needs.
  • Ground Black Pepper Adjust to taste according to dietary needs.
For the Ricotta Layer
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Substitution: Cottage cheese for a lighter filling.
  • 1 large Egg No direct substitution.
  • Fresh Parsley Dried parsley can be used in a pinch.
For the Topping
  • Mozzarella Cheese, Sliced Fresh mozzarella can enhance flavors.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese No direct substitution.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Lasagna
  1. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the sausage and ground beef for 8-10 minutes. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
  2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water. Season, then simmer uncovered for 1.5 hours.
  3. Boil a large pot of salted water, cook lasagna noodles until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and cool on a kitchen towel.
  4. Combine ricotta cheese with egg, parsley, and salt in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
  5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  6. In a baking dish, layer meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat layers and finish with noodles, meat sauce, and Parmesan.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 25 minutes.
  8. Let lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing to serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure you follow tips for noodle cooking and resting time for better texture.

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