Classic lasagna Recipe

Introduction

Lasagna is a comforting Italian dish featuring layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel (or ricotta mixture), and gooey melted cheese. Its versatility allows variations with different proteins, sauces, and cheeses, making it a household favorite across the globe.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes (or tomato puree)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup red wine for depth of flavor

For the Cheese Layers:

• 2 cups ricotta cheese or béchamel sauce
• 1 large egg (if using ricotta)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Assembly:

• 12 lasagna noodles (either oven-ready or boiled until al dente)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrot, and garlic until softened.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
   • Stir in crushed tomatoes, herbs, and optional wine. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until the sauce thickens.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   • For ricotta: Combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half the Parmesan in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
   • If using béchamel: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and gradually add milk until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Add a layer of noodles, followed by meat sauce, cheese mixture, and shredded mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
4. Bake:
   • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
   • Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Conclusion

Classic lasagna is a labor of love, but its layers of flavor make the effort worthwhile. It freezes well, so you can prepare it in advance for busy days or special occasions. Enjoy a slice with a fresh salad or garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

For more details, visit the full recipe

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