Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 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 meat and sauce
- Mixing bowl for ricotta cheese mixture
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 tender. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and water to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, beat egg and stir in ricotta cheese.
6. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
7. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
8. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
9. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the ricotta cheese mixture.
10. Repeat layers of meat sauce, noodles, ricotta cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
11. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top layer of mozzarella cheese.
12. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
13. 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:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- 8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 520
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Protein: 36g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken.
- 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 sautéed vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the meat before adding the sauce.
- Let lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
- Leftover lasagna can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat lasagna in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve lasagna on a large platter with a side salad and garlic bread.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top of the lasagna before serving.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If lasagna is too dry, add a little more water to the meat sauce.
- If lasagna is too watery, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook ground beef 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, tomato-based sauce with layers of creamy ricotta cheese and melted mozzarella cheese.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy with family and friends.
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Taste: Savory, Rich, Cheesy, Herbaceous, Comforting