Aunt Joey'S Lasagne
A hearty, flavorful lasagne with Italian sausage, beef, and rich tomato sauce, complemented by creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and sausage in a skillet.
- Mix in peeled Italian tomatoes and spaghetti sauce.
- Add basil, bay leaf, oregano, garlic salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mixing in some cottage cheese with the ricotta. If you're short on time, use store-bought marinara sauce instead of making your own. Fresh basil can be substituted with dried herbs in a pinch, but adjust the quantity. This lasagne pairs wonderfully with Suzie'S Stuffed Shells for a hearty Italian meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese. A side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagne well. Additionally, garlic bread is a perfect accompaniment to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete Italian feast, consider pairing with Italian recipes like Italian Pork Roast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover the lasagne with foil to retain moisture and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved for quicker meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Joey'S Lasagne contains roughly 336 calories, with 21g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 635mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lasagne ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagne a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of Italian sausage?
If you prefer a milder flavor, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for Italian sausage. You can also add your own blend of spices to mimic the flavor, such as fennel seeds, paprika, or crushed red pepper.
Can I freeze the lasagne?
Absolutely! You can freeze the lasagne before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy nights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).