Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. lasagna noodles
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz.) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Skillet for cooking beef and onion
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until beef is browned and onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
6. Spread a thin layer of the 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 cheese mixture over the noodles. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of meat sauce 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: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef.
- Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta cheese.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be used instead of mozzarella cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat sauce.
- Use spinach or kale in the cheese mixture for added nutrition.
- Substitute the lasagna noodles with zucchini or eggplant slices for a low-carb option.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente so they don't become too soft and mushy.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing to make it easier to serve.
- Leftover lasagna can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat lasagna in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve lasagna on a large platter with a side salad and garlic bread.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top of the lasagna before serving.
Pairings:
Serve with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too dry, add more sauce or cheese on top before baking.
- If the lasagna is too watery, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing to allow the sauce to thicken.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to the Middle Ages.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and tomato-y.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and enjoy with family and friends.
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