Description
World’s Best Lasagna is a classic, comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef and Italian sausage in a rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and a golden Parmesan crust. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, this easy-to-make lasagna melds hearty flavors and gooey cheese into an inviting, home-cooked meal that improves as leftovers for days.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- Pinch of salt
Assembly
- Lasagna noodles (enough to create 3-4 layers, about 12 sheets)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking and proper melding of flavors for your lasagna.
- Sauté Meat and Aromatics: In a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat to keep the sauce rich but not greasy.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 30 minutes to deepen the flavors and develop a rich tomato base.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: While the sauce simmers, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy, creating a luscious layer for the lasagna.
- Assemble Lasagna: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread an even layer of the meat sauce. Next, add a layer of lasagna noodles, then spread the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella. Repeat these layers ending with mozzarella and sprinkle the top evenly with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This allows the lasagna to cook through evenly and the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25 minutes or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbling, creating a delightful crust.
- Rest: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the layers set for perfect, neat slices.
Notes
- Use high-quality cheeses for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Red pepper flakes can be added to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Simmering the sauce adequately enriches the taste and reduces acidity.
- Let the lasagna rest before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version, or add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for more nutrition.
- Sauce and noodles can be prepared in advance for easier assembly later.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: lasagna, Italian recipe, baked pasta, ground beef, Italian sausage, ricotta cheese, comfort food, easy dinner, baked cheese
