Homemade Lasagna Recipe

Name: Homemade Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Lasagna noodles; Ground beef; Italian sausage; Onion; Garlic; Ricotta cheese; Mozzarella cheese; Parmesan cheese; Egg; Tomato sauce; Tomato paste; Salt and pepper; Italian seasoning; Fresh basil

Published: May 15, 2024 by maria · Leave a Comment

Lasagna, a beloved classic in the realm of Italian cuisine, offers layers of creamy, cheesy goodness combined with rich tomato sauce and tender pasta. Making lasagna at home can be a delightful experience that allows you to customize this dish to your taste. Whether for a family gathering, a festive occasion, or simply a comforting meal, this homemade lasagna recipe promises to bring everyone to the table with smiles. Here's how to make a lasagna that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant's.

Ingredients:

9-12 lasagna noodles
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 (6 ounce) cans tomato paste
2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce
2 cups water
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 ½ teaspoons dried basil leaves
½ teaspoon fennel seeds
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
4 cups ricotta cheese
1 egg
¾ pound mozzarella cheese, sliced
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation Steps:

Prep the Sauce:
Begin by cooking the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until the meat is browned and the onions are tender. Drain excess grease. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Season the sauce with sugar, basil, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and continue cooking for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The long simmer helps develop a deep, rich flavor.
Cook the Noodles:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions, but slightly undercook them since they will cook further in the oven. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
Mix Ricotta Layer:
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with a beaten egg, and salt to taste. This mixture will add a creamy, rich layer to your lasagna.
Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange 3-4 noodles over the sauce. Spread a portion of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, a layer of mozzarella slices, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of sauce and a sprinkling of Parmesan.
Bake:
Cover with foil (to prevent sticking, spray foil with cooking spray) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Rest and Serve:
Let the lasagna stand for 15 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Conclusion:

Homemade lasagna is more than just a meal; it's a labor of love that nurtures both the body and soul. This dish is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients, layered together with care, can create a feast worthy of any celebration. Gather your loved ones around the table, serve up this delicious lasagna, and enjoy the accolades—and the leftovers, if there are any!

Homemade Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients:

Preparation Steps:

Conclusion: