Classic Lasagna

Ingredients:

**For the Meat Sauce:**
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1/2 lb (225g) Italian sausage (optional)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to cut acidity)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

**For the Cheese Mixture:**
– 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

**For the Lasagna:**
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Meat Sauce:**
– In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage (if using) over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
– Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
– Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar (if using), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
– Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. **Prepare the Cheese Mixture:**
– In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.

3. **Cook the Lasagna Noodles:**
– Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay them flat on a clean surface.

4. **Assemble the Lasagna:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
– Place 3-4 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
– Spread 1/3 of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by 1/3 of the meat sauce.
– Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
– Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.

5. **Bake the Lasagna:**
– Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
– Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

6. **Serve:**
– Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

This classic lasagna is perfect for a hearty family meal and pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. Enjoy!