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Best Lasagna

Best Lasagna Recipe for Comforting Family Gatherings

Experience the best lasagna that brings comfort and joy to family gatherings with rich layers and savory flavors.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce
  • 12 oz Lasagna Noodles Use traditional or oven-ready noodles for ease in preparation.
  • 1 lb Italian Sausage Ground pork can be substituted for a leaner version.
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter protein base.
  • 1 Onion Yellow or white onion works best.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic enhances the aroma.
  • 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes Can substitute with diced tomatoes.
  • 2 cans Tomato Paste Can be replaced with tomato sauce to reduce acidity.
  • 2 cups Water Adjust based on desired sauce thickness.
  • 2 tablespoons Sugar Balances acidity from tomatoes.
  • 3 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Can swap with basil or oregano.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Fresh basil will elevate the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Fennel Seed Adds unique flavor.
  • ¾ teaspoon Salt Always adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground adds a nice kick.
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 1 large Egg Lightly beaten, can be omitted for vegan options.
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Substitute with cottage cheese for lower fat.
  • 4 cups Mozzarella Cheese Use part-skim or fresh mozzarella.
  • ¾ cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for dairy-free flavor.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • Large Pot
  • 13x9-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Best Lasagna
  1. Cook noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions for 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a Dutch oven, cook Italian sausage and ground beef until browned, about 8–10 minutes. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, sugar, salt, pepper, dried basil, fennel seed, and fresh parsley. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
  4. Combine beaten egg with ricotta cheese, fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl. Mix well.
  5. Grease a baking dish and spread 2 cups of meat sauce at the bottom. Layer noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and parmesan. Repeat layers ending with sauce and remaining cheese.
  6. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 25 minutes until cheese is golden brown.
  7. Allow to sit for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Always start with a layer of sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking. Consider making it a day ahead and refrigerating.

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