Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Skillet for cooking meat
- 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, Italian sausage, onion, and garlic over medium heat until meat is browned and onion is tender. Drain excess fat.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, fennel seeds, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, and parsley.
6. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce and 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.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
12 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 550
Fat: 29g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 1240mg
Sugar: 11g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Fresh basil can be used instead of dried basil.
- Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Use spinach or kale in the cheese mixture.
- Add a layer of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, between the layers of noodles.
Tips and tricks:
- Cook lasagna noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Make the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.
Storage instructions:
- Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Lasagna can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat lasagna, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve lasagna on a large platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.
- Cut lasagna into squares and serve on individual plates.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too dry, add more sauce or cheese to the layers.
- If the lasagna is too watery, let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the excess liquid to be absorbed.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure meat is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Store leftovers promptly in the refrigerator or freezer.
Food history:
- Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to ancient Rome. It is made with layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, cheesy, and tomato-based.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve with a glass of red wine for a classic Italian meal.
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Region: Italian