Ingredients with Measurements:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups of Contrin cheese, shredded
- 1 cup of pesto sauce
- 2 cups of ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. In the baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
5. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
6. Spread half of the ricotta mixture on top of the noodles.
7. Sprinkle half of the Contrin cheese on top of the ricotta mixture.
8. Spread half of the pesto sauce on top of the Contrin cheese.
9. Repeat layers with 3 lasagna noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, remaining Contrin cheese, and remaining pesto sauce.
10. Top with the remaining 3 lasagna noodles.
11. Spread the remaining marinara sauce on top of the noodles.
12. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top of the marinara sauce.
13. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
14. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
15. Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 528
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 112mg
Sodium: 1097mg
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Contrin cheese can be substituted with Parmesan cheese.
- Pesto sauce can be substituted with basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the marinara sauce for a meaty lasagna.
- Use spinach lasagna noodles for a healthier option.
- Add sliced mushrooms or roasted vegetables between the layers for added flavor and nutrition.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain the ricotta cheese well to avoid a watery lasagna.
- Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Cover the lasagna with foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the lasagna on a large platter with fresh basil leaves on top.
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too watery, make sure to drain the ricotta cheese well and use less marinara sauce.
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 ancient Rome.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and savory with a hint of basil.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve with a glass of red wine for a complete Italian 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: Italian