This homemade lasagna features layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, creating a comforting and cheesy dish that the whole family will love.
Author:kevin
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:45 minutes
Total Time:75 minutes
Yield:8 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef (can substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
28 ounces crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
9 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or regular; if using regular, cook before assembling)
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are soft, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Drain any excess fat, then add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop the flavors.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and salt. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Place three noodles lengthwise over the sauce.
Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of meat sauce and one-third of the mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the layers: 3 noodles, remaining ricotta, more meat sauce, and the next third of mozzarella.
Finish with the last three noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and the final layer of mozzarella cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before cutting to allow the layers to set.
Notes
Allow the lasagna to cool before slicing to maintain neat layers.