Ingredients with Measurements:
- 12 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 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup water
- 1 egg
- 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
- Mixing bowl for ricotta mixture
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and water to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, beat egg and stir in ricotta cheese.
6. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange 3 lasagna noodles on top.
7. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
8. Repeat layers of meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
9. Top with a final layer of meat sauce and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
11. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Let stand 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: 464
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 31g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Use spinach lasagna noodles for a healthier option.
- Add a layer of sliced zucchini or eggplant for extra vegetables.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the beef before adding the tomato sauce.
- Let the lasagna stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Storage instructions:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or basil.
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 tomato sauce or water to the meat sauce.
- If the lasagna is too watery, let it bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
Food history:
- Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to ancient Rome.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, tomato-based sauce with hints of basil and oregano, layered with creamy ricotta cheese and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish for dinner.
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Region: Slovenian