There’s something undeniably comforting about a piping hot dish of traditional lasagna. With its layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a beloved Italian classic that never fails to satisfy. In this blog post, we’ll share with you a timeless recipe for traditional lasagna that will transport you to the heart of Italy. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will guide you through the process of creating a mouthwatering lasagna that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey and savor the flavors of this iconic dish.
Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces/800g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces/425g) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking them up with a wooden spoon. Once cooked, drain any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch (22x33cm) baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Arrange four lasagna noodles side by side over the sauce. Spread a layer of ricotta cheese over the noodles, followed by a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
Step 5: Let it Rest and Serve Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle and makes it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Slice into portions and serve hot, accompanied by a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the timeless goodness of traditional lasagna with this easy-to-follow recipe. From the savory meat sauce to the layers of cheese and tender pasta, every bite will transport you to Italian culinary bliss. This classic dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or whenever you’re in the mood for some hearty comfort food. Embrace the aroma and flavors of traditional lasagna, and enjoy the satisfaction of serving a beloved and delicious meal to your loved ones.