Description
This classic homemade lasagna is layered with rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese for the ultimate comfort food dinner.
Ingredients
12–15 lasagna noodles
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound Italian sausage
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (28-ounce) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15-ounce) tomato sauce
1/2 cup water or low-sodium beef broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups whole-milk ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
1–2 teaspoons sugar (optional)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook onion until soft, then add garlic.
Add ground beef and sausage and brown completely.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in tomato paste and cook 1–2 minutes.
Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and optional sugar.
Simmer sauce for 20–30 minutes until thickened.
Mix ricotta, egg, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Cook regular lasagna noodles until just under al dente if needed.
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Spread meat sauce in baking dish.
Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and meat sauce.
Repeat layers 2 more times.
Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake 15–20 minutes more until bubbly and golden.
Rest 15–20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Allow lasagna to rest before slicing for cleaner layers.
Use oven-ready noodles for an easier version.
Lasagna freezes beautifully before or after baking.
Add spinach or mushrooms for a veggie variation.