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Italian Lasagna

Authentic Italian Lasagna

A classic Italian dish featuring layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender noodles, perfect for comfort food lovers.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground beef or Italian sausage A mix of both can enhance flavor.
  • 1 medium Onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Provides aromatic flavor.
  • 28 oz Crushed tomatoes Base for the meat sauce.
  • 6 oz Tomato paste Thickens the sauce and adds richness.
  • 14 oz Tomato sauce Enhances the sauce's flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil For sautéing the vegetables.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried basil Adds a classic Italian flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Enhances the sauce's aroma.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt To taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper To taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes Optional for heat.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 15 oz Ricotta cheese Provides creaminess.
  • 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese For layering and topping.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Adds a nutty flavor.
  • 1 large Egg Helps bind the cheese mixture.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped For flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano For flavor.
For the Lasagna Layers
  • 12-14 noodles Lasagna noodles Regular or no-boil.
  • Extra mozzarella cheese For topping To create a gooey top layer.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • medium saucepan
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • whisk
  • Wooden spoon
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Prepare the meat sauce by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until soft.
  2. Add ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir until browned, then drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Season with basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 30-40 minutes.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of noodles.
  6. Layer half of the meat sauce, half of the béchamel sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
  7. Finish with a final layer of noodles topped with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
  8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Let the lasagna cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Authentic Italian lasagna is a labor of love that combines fresh ingredients and traditional techniques for a comforting dish.