Italian > Lasagnas

Mampostial Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 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
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 container (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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 beef is browned and onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine.

4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

5. In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.

6. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.

7. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles. Top with another layer of meat sauce.

8. Repeat layers with 3 more noodles, remaining cheese mixture, and meat sauce.

9. Top with remaining 3 lasagna noodles and remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.

10. 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:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 540
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 1200mg
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 38g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef.
- Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta cheese.
- Any type of shredded cheese can be used in place of mozzarella cheese.

Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat sauce for added flavor.
- Use spinach or zucchini instead of noodles for a low-carb option.
- Add a layer of sliced pepperoni or cooked sausage to the meat sauce for a meat-lover's version.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef before adding the other ingredients.
- Don't overcook the lasagna noodles, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Storage instructions:
- Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Garnishes:
- Fresh basil or parsley can be sprinkled on top for added flavor and color.

Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too dry, add a little extra tomato sauce or water to the meat sauce.
- If the lasagna is too watery, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Food safety advice:
- Be 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, tomato-based sauce with hints of basil and oregano, layered with creamy ricotta cheese and melted mozzarella cheese.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and bubbly, straight from the oven.

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Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Rich, Flavorful, Tomatoey