Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. lasagna noodles
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1 container (15 oz.) ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb. Blu Val Chiusella cheese, grated
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Skillet for cooking meat and sauce
- Mixing bowl for ricotta mixture
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, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add onion and garlic and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, 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, egg, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
6. To assemble lasagna, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, followed by a layer of ricotta mixture, a layer of grated Blu Val Chiusella cheese, and a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 50 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 550
- Fat: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Protein: 36g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
- Blu Val Chiusella cheese can be substituted with Gorgonzola or blue cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms or spinach to the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a gluten-free option.
- Make a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and adding more vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft and mushy in the final dish.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set and make it easier to cut.
- Leftover lasagna can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place a portion of lasagna on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the lasagna on a large platter with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added color and flavor.
Pairings:
- Serve with a full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Chianti.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too dry, add more tomato sauce or a splash of water 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:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Store leftover lasagna in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that has been around since the Middle Ages. It is typically made with layers of pasta, cheese, and meat sauce.
Flavor profiles:
- The Blu Val Chiusella cheese adds a tangy and slightly salty flavor to the lasagna, while the meat sauce provides a savory and rich taste.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the lasagna hot and bubbly straight from the oven for the best flavor and texture.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Rich, Hearty, Cheesy, Herbal, Tomato, Tomato-Y