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Classic Lasagna

Classic Lasagna: Comforting Layers of Italian Deliciousness

Classic Lasagna is the ultimate Italian comfort food, featuring rich layers of marinara, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella that bring everyone together.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Noodles
  • 12 noodles Lasagna Noodles Use no-boil noodles for quicker assembly.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives.
  • 24 ounces Marinara Sauce Homemade elevates freshness.
  • 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes Can replace with crushed tomatoes.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning Fresh basil and oregano can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with high-quality oil or butter.
  • to taste Salt Essential seasoning.
  • to taste Pepper Essential seasoning.
For the Ricotta Mixture
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese can be used for a lighter version.
  • 1 large Egg Omit for a vegan option.
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can serve as a vegan alternative.
For the Cheese Topping
  • 3 cups Shredded Mozzarella Provolone or lactose-free cheese can be used.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Ricotta Cheese Lasagna
  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and lay flat on a kitchen towel.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, brown for 6-8 minutes, then drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning, and let simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and grated Parmesan. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Layer noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, and shredded mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with noodles topped with remaining meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  6. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, mix the ricotta until smooth to avoid lumps. Ensure proper layering to prevent dry patches. Rest after baking for cleaner slices.

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