Lasagna is one of those ultimate comfort foods, satisfying with its layers of flavors and textures. Today, we’ll craft a rich, hearty version that brings together Italian sausage, ground beef, and luscious cheeses for a meal that will warm both the body and soul.
Ingredients
- Italian sausage โ 340 g (3/4 pound)
- Ground beef โ 340 g (3/4 pound)
- Garlic cloves โ 7, minced
- Onion โ 1, diced
- Tomato paste โ 170 g (6 ounces)
- Crushed tomatoes โ 450 g (28 ounces, or 1 pound)
- Granulated sugar โ 1 tablespoon
- Italian seasoning โ 1 tablespoon
- Dried basil โ 1 teaspoon
- Tomato sauce โ 425 g (15 ounces)
- Salt โ 1 1/2 teaspoons, more to taste
- Black pepper โ 3/4 teaspoon, cracked
- Lasagna noodles โ 12 sheets, cooked al dente
- Ricotta cheese โ 425 g (15 ounces)
- Large egg โ 1
- Fresh parsley โ 1 tablespoon, chopped
- Fresh mozzarella โ 450 g (16 ounces), sliced
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese โ 60 ml (1/4 cup)
- Olive oil or cooking spray โ to grease the dish
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Remove the casing from Italian sausage and add it to the pot along with ground beef. Break up the meat using a wooden spoon and cook until browned. - Sautรฉ the Aromatics
Add minced garlic and diced onion to the browned meat. Stir frequently for about five minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. - Incorporate Tomatoes and Spices
Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, sugar, Italian seasoning, dried basil, tomato sauce, and salt. Stir well and let it simmer on medium-low heat for about 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. - Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. - Make the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth. - Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 190ยฐC (375ยฐF). Lightly grease a 33 cm x 23 cm (13 x 9 inch) casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray. Spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, and then half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layering and finish with a topping of mozzarella slices and grated Parmesan. - Bake and Rest
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbling. Allow it to rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
This lasagna, with its rich and flavorful layers, is a showstopper for any dinner table. Pair it with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the heartwarming taste of Italy right from your kitchen!
