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Easy Lasagna Recipe

Flavor-Packed Easy Lasagna Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners

Enjoy this easy lasagna recipe, a comforting dish perfect for family dinners that warms the heart and pleases everyone.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound lean ground beef or ground turkey for a lighter version
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes opt for San Marzano for the best flavor
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste double-concentrate works wonders
  • 1 whole onion finely chopped yellow or white onion
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for a subtle kick
  • to taste salt essential for seasoning
  • to taste black pepper essential for seasoning
For the Cheese Layers
  • 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese drain first to avoid excess moisture
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese freshly shredded is best
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Parmigiano-Reggiano is highly recommended
For the Noodles
  • 12 pieces lasagna noodles use either regular or no-boil noodles
For Garnish
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • fine sieve

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add one finely chopped onion and 3 cloves of minced garlic, sauté for about 3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  2. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the skillet, cooking until well browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break up the meat into small pieces. Incorporate 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes, and season with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Let them sit until ready to layer.
  4. Begin layering your lasagna in a 9x13 inch baking dish with a layer of meat sauce at the bottom, followed by 3 lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat these layers, finishing with noodles and a topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
  5. Cover the assembled lasagna with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil for the final 10-15 minutes to allow cheese to bubble and brown. Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness.
  6. Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and basil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Ensure that the ricotta is well-drained for a non-watery lasagna. Use freshly shredded mozzarella for better texture.

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