Classic Italian Lasagna

Here’s a detailed recipe for Classic Italian Lasagna:

Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork (optional)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 15 oz (450g) ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Lasagna:

• 12-15 lasagna noodles (no-boil or traditional, according to package instructions)
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
   • Add the ground beef and ground pork (if using). Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (optional), oregano, basil, thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
   • Bring the sauce to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. Set aside.
3. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
   • If using traditional lasagna noodles, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, skip this step.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a 9×13 inch (or similar size) baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
   • Add a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, making sure to slightly overlap them.
   • Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of the meat sauce.
   • Sprinkle a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
   • Repeat the layering process: noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese, until all the ingredients are used. The top layer should be sauce and mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake the Lasagna:
   • Cover the lasagna with foil (tenting it slightly to prevent the cheese from sticking).
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the lasagna is bubbling and the cheese on top is golden and slightly crispy.
   • Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Serve the lasagna with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Tips:

• Meat Variations: You can use all ground beef, or substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage depending on your preference.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian lasagna, omit the meat and add layers of roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and spinach.
• Make Ahead: Lasagna can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking, or frozen for up to 3 months.

This classic Italian lasagna recipe is rich, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s the perfect comfort food for a family dinner or special occasion. Enjoy!