Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste
- 2 tsp. dried basil
- 2 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb. 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 beef and onions
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until meat is browned and onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley. Mix well.
6. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
7. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the meat sauce.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 480
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 1180mg
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 34g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried.
- Cottage cheese can be used instead of ricotta cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Use spinach or zucchini instead of noodles for a low-carb option.
- Add a layer of sliced pepperoni or cooked Italian sausage.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef before adding the tomato sauce.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
- 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.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the lasagna on a large platter and garnish with fresh parsley.
Garnishes:
Fresh parsley or basil
Pairings:
Garlic bread and a Caesar salad
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables or a side of pasta salad
Troubleshooting advice:
If the lasagna is too watery, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the sauce to thicken.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the lasagna to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is made with layers of pasta, cheese, and tomato sauce.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and tomato-y
Serving suggestions:
Serve the lasagna hot with a side of garlic bread and a Caesar salad.
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Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Rich, Garlicky, Tomato, Herby, Tomato-Y