Description
This classic lasagna recipe features layers of pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, and a rich meat sauce, baked to perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
- 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, sausage, onion, and garlic over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, sugar, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, then spread with one third of the ricotta mixture, top with one third of the mozzarella, and add another layer of meat sauce.
- Repeat the layers twice more, finishing with a layer of noodles and meat sauce. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray foil with cooking spray) and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna cool for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- You can make the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it to save time.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Lasagna can be frozen before baking. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
Nutrition
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 20
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 25
- Cholesterol: 80
Keywords: lasagna recipe, classic lasagna, homemade lasagna, Italian lasagna, comfort food recipe