Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, sugar, basil, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, eggs, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese over the ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
12 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 496
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 121mg
Sodium: 1317mg
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 33g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Romano cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with provolone cheese.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Use spinach lasagna noodles for a healthier option.
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the ricotta cheese mixture.
- Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a different flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Let the lasagna cool for 10-15 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 4 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat lasagna in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve lasagna on a large platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.
- Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley
- Sour cream
- Balsamic glaze
Pairings:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Red wine
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Grilled asparagus
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 cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to the Middle Ages.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory
- Tangy
- Cheesy
- Meaty
Serving suggestions:
- Serve lasagna hot with a side salad and garlic bread.
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