Classic Baked Lasagna Recipe

Classic Baked Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Meat Sauce:
  • 500g ground beef or turkey
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Ricotta Layer:
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• For Assembly:
  • 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. Stir in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes to blend flavors.
2. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
   In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, and parsley until well combined.
3. Assemble the Lasagna
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer with 3 lasagna noodles, then spread a portion of the ricotta mixture over the noodles. Add a layer of meat sauce and sprinkle mozzarella on top. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with mozzarella on top.
4. Bake
   Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
5. Serve
   Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with crusty bread.