Italian > Lasagnas

Tutti's Classic Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Skillet for cooking meat
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula

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, Italian sausage, onion, and garlic over medium heat until meat is browned and onion is tender. Drain off any excess fat.

4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.

5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and parsley.

6. Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Layer with 4 lasagna noodles, 1/3 of the cheese mixture, and 1 cup of the meat sauce. Repeat layers twice.

7. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.

8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Let lasagna stand for 10 minutes before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 50 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 8-10 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 611
- Fat: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 38g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta cheese.
- Fresh basil can be substituted for dried basil.

Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Use spinach lasagna noodles for a healthier option.
- Add a layer of sautéed zucchini or eggplant.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the meat before adding the tomato sauce.
- Don't overcook the lasagna noodles or they will become mushy.
- Let the lasagna stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Storage instructions:
- Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or basil.

Pairings:
- Pair with a full-bodied 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 a little more tomato sauce or water to the meat sauce.
- If the lasagna is too watery, let it stand for a few minutes before serving to allow the excess liquid to be absorbed.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the meat to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
- Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to ancient Rome.

Flavor profiles:
- Savory, cheesy, and tomato-y.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy with family and friends.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Rich, Meaty, Cheesy, Tomato, Herby, Tomato-Y