Lasagne(8 To 10 Servings)
Hearty layered lasagne featuring rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and gatherings craving authentic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground chuck in a heavy skillet; spoon off excess fat.
- Add minced garlic, dried basil, salt, stewed tomatoes, and tomato paste to the skillet.
- Simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Cook lasagne noodles according to package directions; drain.
- Beat eggs in a bowl.
- Add ricotta or cottage cheese, grated Parmesan, parsley flakes, salt, and black pepper to the eggs; blend well.
- Layer half of the cooked lasagne noodles in a buttered 13½ x 9-inch baking dish.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Add half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the meat sauce on top.
- Repeat the layering with remaining noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and meat sauce.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 30 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of red wine to the meat sauce. If you're short on time, use no-boil lasagna noodles or pre-made sauces. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, and for a vegetarian twist, try layering with sautéed vegetables or spinach instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lasagna with a simple side salad dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a classic Italian bread pairs beautifully with this dish, making for a comforting meal. For a wine pairing, consider a medium-bodied red like Chianti or a nice Merlot, which complements the flavors of the meat sauce well.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lasagne(8 To 10 Servings) contains roughly 892 calories, with 45g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (90% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value), and calcium (51% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 867mg per serving (38% 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 prepare lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out. If you want to make it even earlier, you can freeze it before baking; just adjust the baking time if cooking from frozen.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta cheese on hand, cottage cheese is a great substitute for a similar texture. You can also blend cream cheese with a bit of milk for a richer filling. For a lighter option, consider mixing in pureed tofu with herbs for a dairy-free alternative that still provides creaminess.
How can I make lasagna more flavorful?
To amp up the flavor, try adding Italian herbs such as oregano or thyme to your meat sauce. Incorporating sautéed mushrooms or spinach can add depth and nutrition. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley before serving also enhances the dish, giving it a fresh, aromatic touch. Browse more Italian recipes for additional ideas.
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).