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Comforting Lasagna with Meat Sauce and Ricotta

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A straightforward and hearty lasagna recipe featuring a rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and tender pasta sheets, perfect for family dinners and cozy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano style if possible)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente (regular or no-boil)
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until sauce thickens.
  4. Mix the Ricotta Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, nutmeg, chopped parsley or basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and smooth.
  5. Cook the Lasagna Noodles (if not using no-boil): Boil salted water, cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain, rinse with cold water, and lay flat on a towel or baking sheet.
  6. Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
  7. Layer 3 noodles overlapping slightly. Spread one-third of ricotta mixture evenly over noodles, spoon one-third of meat sauce on top, then sprinkle about 1 cup shredded mozzarella.
  8. Repeat layering twice more: noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella. Finish with a final layer of noodles topped with meat sauce and remaining mozzarella.
  9. Cover dish tightly with aluminum foil, tenting slightly to avoid touching cheese.
  10. Bake covered for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  11. Let lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing to allow layers to set.

Notes

Simmer the meat sauce slowly to develop deep flavor. Mix ricotta filling thoroughly for even seasoning. Let lasagna rest before slicing to set layers. If cheese browns too fast, tent with foil again. For dairy-free or vegetarian versions, substitute ingredients accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: lasagna, meat sauce, ricotta, comfort food, easy lasagna, family dinner, Italian recipe

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/comforting-lasagna-with-meat-sauce-and-ricotta-recipe-easy-and-perfect-guide/