Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. lasagna noodles
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste
- 2 tbsp. sugar
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
- 2 cups 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, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is softened. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, basil, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese.
6. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
7. Layer lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
8. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top of the noodles.
9. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta cheese mixture.
10. Repeat layers of meat sauce, noodles, 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: 520
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 33g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or ground chicken.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with provolone cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Use spinach lasagna noodles instead of regular lasagna noodles.
- Add chopped fresh basil to the ricotta cheese mixture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef before adding the other ingredients.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
- 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, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the lasagna on a large platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too dry, add a little bit of water or beef broth to the meat sauce.
- If the lasagna is too watery, let it bake for a few more minutes without the foil on top.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Store leftover lasagna in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Tecula Mecula Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that originated in the region of Emilia-Romagna. It is known for its rich and hearty meat sauce and layers of cheese and pasta.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, meaty, cheesy, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve hot with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A