Bolognese Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Skillet for cooking meat sauce
- Mixing bowl for cheese mixture

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.

4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.

5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley.

6. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

7. Layer noodles, meat sauce, and cheese mixture in the baking dish, repeating until all ingredients are used up.

8. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.

9. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

10. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.


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

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 550
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 35g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Cottage cheese can be used instead of ricotta cheese.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried herbs.

Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Use spinach or zucchini instead of noodles for a low-carb option.
- Add a layer of roasted vegetables, such as eggplant or bell peppers, to the lasagna.

Tips and tricks:
- Let the lasagna cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to make it easier to slice.
- Make the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.
- Use no-boil lasagna noodles to save time.

Storage instructions:
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the lasagna on a large platter and garnish with fresh parsley.

Garnishes:
Fresh parsley or basil

Pairings:
Garlic bread and a green salad

Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables or a Caesar salad

Troubleshooting advice:
If the lasagna is too dry, add more tomato sauce or a little bit of water to the meat sauce.

Food safety advice:
Make sure the meat is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to prevent foodborne illness.

Food history:
Bolognese sauce originated in Bologna, Italy and is traditionally made with ground beef, pancetta, onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and red wine.

Flavor profiles:
Savory, rich, and comforting

Serving suggestions:
Serve hot with garlic bread and a green salad.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Rich, Meaty, Tomato, Cheesy, Comforting