Ultimate Lasagna

This ultimate lasagna is a true feast for the senses, featuring rich layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and plenty of melted mozzarella. Perfectly seasoned with fresh herbs and tomatoes, it delivers an explosion of flavor in every bite. The pasta is delicately layered and soaked in sauce, then baked to a golden-brown perfection. This dish is ideal for special occasions or when you want to impress family and friends with a culinary masterpiece.

Ultimate Lasagna Recipe

This classic lasagna recipe is rich, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Layers of hearty meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella make this dish unforgettable.

Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Ground Beef: 500g (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
• Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• Crushed Tomatoes: 800g (two 400g cans)
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon
• Sugar: 1 tablespoon (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and Black Pepper: to taste
• Fresh Basil: a handful, chopped (for extra flavor)

For the Cheese Mixture:

• Ricotta Cheese: 500g
• Egg: 1 large
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup
• Chopped Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons
• Salt and Pepper: to taste

For the Layers:

• Lasagna Noodles: 12 sheets (pre-cooked or no-boil)
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 3 cups
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: for topping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and sugar (if using). Simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add fresh basil at the end and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese, the egg, grated Parmesan, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Lay down a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, then a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella, and finally a layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
   • Cover with aluminum foil (sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
   • Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Value (per serving):

• Calories: ~550 kcal
• Protein: ~35g
• Fat: ~30g
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: ~900mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on the exact ingredients used.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Rest Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Servings:

• Serves: 8 people

Enjoy this hearty and delicious lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal!