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Comforting Homemade Lasagna with Rich Meat Sauce

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A hearty and satisfying homemade lasagna featuring a slow-simmered rich meat sauce layered with creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, perfect for family meals and cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 9 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil; whole wheat optional)
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Cook chopped onion for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered on low heat for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Cook the Lasagna Noodles (if using regular noodles): Boil salted water, cook noodles until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and lay on a towel to prevent sticking. No-boil noodles can be used as a shortcut.
  5. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta, beaten egg, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
  6. Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup meat sauce on bottom of baking dish.
  7. Layer 3 noodles over sauce, spread one-third of ricotta mixture, 1 cup meat sauce, and 1 cup mozzarella. Repeat layering two more times.
  8. Finish with a top layer of noodles, remaining meat sauce, and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
  9. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  10. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

If sauce tastes too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance. Avoid overcooking noodles as they will continue cooking in the oven. Let lasagna rest 15 minutes before slicing to set layers. Use no-boil noodles to save time. For easier cleanup, lightly oil the baking dish or use non-stick spray.

Nutrition

Keywords: lasagna, homemade lasagna, meat sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, Italian recipe, comfort food, family dinner

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/comforting-homemade-lasagna-with-rich-meat-sauce-easy-step-by-step-recipe/