Ingredients with Measurements:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups of mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 jar of roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, Parmesan cheese, roasted red peppers, basil, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
5. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
6. Spread 1/3 of the mascarpone mixture over the noodles.
7. Sprinkle 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the mascarpone mixture.
8. Repeat layers of sauce, noodles, mascarpone mixture, and mozzarella cheese two more times.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
10. Bake for 30 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50-55 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 550
Fat: 36g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 1050mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted for the mascarpone cheese.
- Feta cheese can be substituted for the Parmesan cheese.
- Fresh spinach can be added to the mascarpone mixture for extra nutrition.
Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the marinara sauce for a meaty lasagna.
- Substitute the roasted red peppers with sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
- Use different herbs such as oregano or thyme instead of basil.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente so they don't become mushy in the oven.
- Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and make it easier to cut.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the lasagna on a large platter with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese can be used as a garnish.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the lasagna is too dry, add more marinara sauce or a little bit of water to the dish before baking.
- If the lasagna is too watery, let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that has been around for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the city of Naples in the 14th century.
Flavor Profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, and slightly sweet from the roasted red peppers.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve hot with a side salad and garlic bread.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian