Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. lasagna noodles
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Add tomato sauce, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese.
6. In the baking dish, layer half of the cooked lasagna noodles on the bottom.
7. Spread half of the meat sauce over the noodles.
8. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the meat sauce.
9. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta cheese mixture.
10. Repeat layers with remaining noodles, meat sauce, ricotta cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
11. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
12. 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 per serving: 450
Fat per serving: 22g
Carbohydrates per serving: 33g
Protein per serving: 29g
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 substituted for mozzarella cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Use spinach or kale instead of noodles for a low-carb option.
- Add a layer of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, between the meat sauce and cheese layers.
Tips and tricks:
- Cook the lasagna noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft when baked.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Freeze leftovers for a quick and easy meal later.
Storage instructions:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container 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 chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Pairings:
Pair 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 beef broth to the meat sauce.
- If the lasagna is too watery, let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the excess liquid to be absorbed.
Food safety advice:
- Cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°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 dates back to the Middle Ages. It is made with layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese, and is often served at special occasions and holidays.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and hearty.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and enjoy with friends and family.
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
Taste: Savory, Cheesy, Herby, Tomato, Garlicky, Rich, Tomato-Y