If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dish to impress your family and friends, look no further than homemade lasagna. This classic Italian dish is not only satisfying but also surprisingly easy to make. In this post, we’ll walk you through the generous layers of pasta, cheese, and rich meat sauce that make lasagna a beloved favorite worldwide.
How to Make Perfect Baked Lasagna
The beauty of lasagna lies in its adaptability to various flavors and ingredients. Whether you prefer a meat sauce or a vegetarian option, this recipe can be tailored to your taste. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, cook lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix well.
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the mozzarella cheese and a layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with noodles topped with meat sauce, remaining mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the lasagna to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve this delightful lasagna hot, and watch as your guests appreciate the remarkable flavors. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two. Enjoy!