Italian > Lasagnas

Čačanski Sir Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 package lasagna noodles
- 1 pound Čačanski sir cheese, grated
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Skillet for cooking beef and onion
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Aluminum foil

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until beef is browned and onion is translucent.
4. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
7. Layer lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
8. Spread a layer of the cheese mixture on top of the noodles.
9. Repeat layers of meat sauce, noodles, and cheese mixture until all ingredients are used up.
10. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
11. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
12. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 534
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 114mg
Sodium: 1144mg
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 38g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with provolone or cheddar cheese.
- Čačanski sir cheese can be substituted with feta or goat cheese.

Variations:
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the cheese mixture for added nutrition.
- Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a spicier flavor.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra texture.
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a gluten-free version.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente so they don't become mushy in the oven.
- Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Leftover lasagna can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Storage instructions:
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place a slice of lasagna on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, cover the lasagna with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the lasagna on a large platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top. Cut into squares for easy serving.

Garnishes:
Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil can be used as a garnish.

Pairings:
Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too dry, add more tomato sauce or diced tomatoes to the meat sauce.
- If the lasagna is too watery, let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
Čačanski sir cheese is a type of Serbian cheese that is made from sheep's milk. It has a tangy, salty flavor and is often used in traditional Serbian dishes.

Flavor profiles:
This lasagna has a rich, savory flavor from the meat sauce and a creamy, cheesy flavor from the ricotta and mozzarella cheeses.

Serving suggestions:
Serve this lasagna with a glass of red wine for a cozy and comforting meal.

Related Categories

Cooking Method: N/A

Course Type: N/A

Dietary: N/A

Ingredient: N/A

Meal type: N/A

Occassion: N/A

Region: Serbian

Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Creamy, Rich, Flavorful