Classic Meat Lasagna Recipe

Classic Meat Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Meat Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground pork (or use additional beef)
  • 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Cheese Layer:
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Additional Ingredients:
  • 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Additional fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft. Increase the heat to high and add the ground meats, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine if using, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 13×9 inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, and sprinkle a third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with a generous layer of meat sauce and mozzarella on top.
4. Bake the Lasagna: Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for another 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and browned. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before cutting.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving to add a touch of freshness and color.