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
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 egg
- 1 container (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
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 large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, beat the egg and then stir in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and chopped basil.
6. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, followed by a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture, and then a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 50 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 553
- Total fat: 29g
- Saturated fat: 14g
- Cholesterol: 136mg
- Sodium: 1095mg
- Total carbohydrates: 33g
- Dietary fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 39g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or ground pork.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with provolone cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor.
- Use spinach lasagna noodles for a healthier option.
- Add a layer of sautéed zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian option.
Tips and tricks:
- Cook the lasagna noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming too mushy when baked.
- Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Leftover lasagna can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Storage instructions:
- Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat leftover lasagna, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the lasagna on a large platter with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the lasagna before serving.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too dry, add more tomato sauce to the meat mixture.
- If the lasagna is too watery, let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the ground beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to the Middle Ages.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the lasagna with a glass of red wine for a complete Italian meal.
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Region: Italian