Classic Lasagna with Homemade Sauce

Lasagna is a classic Italian dish loved by many around the world. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. While there are many variations of lasagna, this recipe focuses on the classic version with homemade sauce. The layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and sauce come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 cup tomato sauce
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Filling:

1 pound ricotta cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg, lightly beaten

For the Lasagna:

12 lasagna noodles
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook, uncovered, for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped fresh parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and the lightly beaten egg. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Spread a thin layer of the prepared sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping them. Spread a third of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the remaining sauce. Sprinkle with a third of the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of sauce and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it is tightly sealed. This will help trap the steam and prevent the cheese from sticking to the foil. Bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Variations

While the classic lasagna recipe is delicious on its own, you can always add your own twists to make it even more personalized:

Vegetarian Lasagna:

Swap the ground beef and Italian sausage for sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. You can also include spinach or kale for added nutrition.

Seafood Lasagna:

Replace the meat with cooked seafood such as shrimp, crab, or lobster. Consider adding a layer of creamy white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk to complement the seafood flavors.

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna:

Add a layer of sautéed spinach to the ricotta cheese mixture. This adds a pop of color and a healthy dose of greens to the dish.

Tips

Make sure to use a large enough baking dish to accommodate all the layers. A 9×13-inch dish is the standard size for lasagna.
Letting the lasagna rest for a few minutes after baking allows it to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
Feel free to make the sauce and filling ahead of time. You can refrigerate them separately for up to 2 days before assembling the lasagna.
Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven.
Serve the lasagna with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Classic lasagna with homemade sauce is a timeless recipe that never fails to impress. The layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and sauce create a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a slice of this delicious Italian creation.

FAQs

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe. Simply follow the instructions on the package, as they may require different layering techniques or additional liquid.

Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?

Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if you prefer. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may differ slightly, but it will still work well in the recipe.

Can I freeze the lasagna?

Yes, you can freeze the lasagna either before or after baking it. If freezing before baking, assemble the lasagna in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and follow the baking instructions. If freezing after baking, let the lasagna cool completely, then portion it into individual servings and wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Thaw and reheat as needed.

Can I add additional vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the sauce, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots. Simply sauté them with the onion and garlic before adding the meat.

With this classic lasagna recipe, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that will become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the rich flavors, gooey cheese, and satisfying layers of this homemade delight!