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
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 container (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a bowl, beat the egg and mix in the ricotta cheese and parsley.
6. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
7. Layer the lasagna noodles on top of the meat sauce.
8. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
9. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the ricotta mixture.
10. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the cheese.
11. Repeat the layers of noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and meat sauce.
12. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top of the lasagna.
13. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
14. Bake for 25 minutes.
15. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 468
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 105mg
Sodium: 1058mg
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 33g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or sausage can be substituted for ground beef.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried herbs.
- Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta cheese.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be substituted for mozzarella cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Use spinach or zucchini instead of lasagna noodles for a low-carb option.
- Add a layer of cooked and drained spinach to the ricotta mixture.
- Use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage for added flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente so they don't become mushy in the oven.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to settle.
- Freeze leftovers for an easy meal later on.
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 with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese on top of the lasagna.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too watery, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- If the lasagna is too dry, add more sauce or cheese on top before baking.
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 typically made with layers of pasta, cheese, and meat sauce.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and tomato-y.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot with a side salad and garlic bread.
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Region: Italian