Description
Dive into layers of rich, comforting flavors with Virginia's Easy Lasagna. This no-fuss recipe combines classic ingredients for a timeless, home-cooked meal that's perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, 1/4 cup Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a small amount of meat sauce on the bottom.
- Lay 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then add 1/3 of the meat sauce on top. Repeat layers two more times.
- Top the final layer with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and 1 cup of grated Parmesan.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For added depth, consider adding some red wine to the meat sauce.
- You can also incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the layers.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 115mg