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Classic Lasagna with Ricotta

Classic Lasagna with Ricotta: Comforting Layers of Joy

This Classic Lasagna with Ricotta is a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy weeknights and festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can be substituted with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 medium Onion
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes
  • 15 ounces Tomato Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Feel free to swap with fresh.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Balances acidity from tomatoes.
For the Ricotta Mixture
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Can be substituted with cottage cheese.
  • 1 large Egg
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chopped, can be omitted.
For the Noodle Layers
  • 12 ounces Lasagna Noodles Cook according to package directions unless using no-boil noodles.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Shredded

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Aluminum Foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and stir in minced garlic, sautéing for just 1 minute. Mix in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried herbs, sugar, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
  2. Make the Ricotta Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with beaten egg, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
  3. Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking pan, spread a thin layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of cooked noodles, meat sauce, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with noodles topped with sauce and mozzarella.
  4. Bake the Lasagna: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  5. Rest & Serve: Allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Cut into squares and enjoy your classic lasagna!

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 24gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This recipe offers customizable options like adding vegetables to the ricotta mixture and gluten-free noodle alternatives. Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.

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