Classic Hearty Lasagna
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1/4 cup tomato sauce
1/4 cup red wine (optional but adds great depth)
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp dried basil
1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
For the Cheese Mixture:
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Lasagna:
12 lasagna noodles (either no-boil or traditional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add the ground beef (or beef and pork mix), breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and red wine (if using). Add oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions (if using traditional noodles). Drain and lay them flat on a clean surface to prevent sticking.
Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
Spread a layer of the cheese mixture on top of the noodles, followed by a layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layering process, finishing with a top layer of noodles and the remaining sauce.
Sprinkle the top layer with extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve:
Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting to allow the layers to set.
Serve the lasagna on a decorative white plate with a brown floral pattern. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color.
Hold the plate casually with your hand, emphasizing the comfort and hominess of the dish.
Enjoy:
Enjoy a hearty slice of lasagna with gooey melted cheese, rich meat sauce, and soft, perfectly layered pasta.
This lasagna combines all the elements of a comforting, homemade meal, with a golden, cheesy topping, rich layers, and subtle imperfections that make it feel authentic and inviting.