Homemade Classic Lasagna

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Of course! Here’s a big, detailed recipe you can proudly share—complete with everything you asked for. Let’s go with a classic and beloved dish: Lasagna.

Homemade Classic Lasagna

Introduction

Lasagna is a time-honored Italian comfort food that has traveled across borders and generations. It’s a baked pasta dish made with layers of flat noodles, hearty meat sauce, creamy béchamel or ricotta, and melted cheese. This version is the classic meat lasagna—rich, satisfying, and a true crowd-pleaser.

History

Lasagna originates from Italy, dating back to Ancient Rome, though the word itself comes from the Greek “Laganon,” the earliest form of pasta. Over time, it evolved into the layered casserole we know today. In Bologna, it is often made with a ragù (meat sauce) and béchamel, while in the U.S., ricotta and mozzarella are commonly used.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb Italian sausage
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Filling:

  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Other:

  • 9 lasagna noodles (or use no-boil)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan for topping
  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions & Method

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

  1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and sausage. Drain the fat.
  2. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, and oregano.
  4. Simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the lasagna noodles al dente.
  2. Drain and lay flat on a kitchen towel to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling

  1. In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a 9×13 inch pan, spread a thin layer of sauce.
  3. Add 3 noodles. Top with a layer of ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella.
  4. Repeat layers (3 times). End with meat sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  2. Uncover and bake an additional 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  3. Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Formation & Lovers

Lasagna is a dish that forms in layers, just like memories shared at the table. Its fans range from children to gourmet chefs. Lovers of lasagna admire its balance of flavor, texture, and soul-warming satisfaction.

Benefits

  • Protein-rich from meat and cheese.
  • Calcium boost from the dairy.
  • Comfort food for the mind and soul.
  • Can be customized for vegetarians or gluten-free diets.
  • Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1/8th of pan):

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Calcium: 20% DV

Conclusion

Lasagna is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of family, history, and flavor. Each bite speaks of warmth, togetherness, and tradition. Whether it’s your grandmother’s Sunday special or your go-to potluck masterpiece, lasagna never fails to bring joy.

Would you like the next big recipe to be a dessert, a bread, or something festive?

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