Recipe for Classic Meat Lasagna

Recipe for Classic Meat Lasagna

Ingredients:

• For the Meat Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork (optional; you can use all beef)
  • 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Lasagna:
  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
   • Add ground beef and pork, breaking it up with a spoon until browned.
   • Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine if using. Add basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
   • Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a sheet of aluminum foil to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
   • In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spread a layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
   • Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
   • Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
   • Repeat the layers twice more, ending with a layer of noodles topped with meat sauce and remaining mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake the Lasagna:
   • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for another 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
   • Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with additional chopped parsley or basil if desired.

This lasagna is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Enjoy your homemade lasagna!