Meaty Lasagna
A hearty, flavorful lasagna featuring a rich meat sauce, melted cheeses, and classic Italian seasonings, perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 onion, minced ⓘ
- 2 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1 can whole tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 tsp. oregano ⓘ
- 1 1/3 Tbsp. salt
- 1/2 lb. lasagna noodles ⓘ
- 1 c. Ricotta cheese ⓘ
- 1/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, minced ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. shortening ⓘ
- 1 (6 oz.) can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
- water for boiling ⓘ
Instructions
- Saute onion, garlic, and ground beef in shortening over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 20 minutes.
- Add canned whole tomatoes, tomato sauce, and oregano to the meat mixture.
- Add 1 teaspoon salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce, stirring occasionally, for about 45 minutes.
- Cook lasagna noodles in boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- Layer cooked noodles, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a baking dish.
- Repeat layers as desired and finish with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the meat sauce while it simmers. If you're short on time, substitute the lasagna noodles with no-boil varieties for a quicker preparation. Adding fresh basil or spinach can enhance the flavor profile, making it reminiscent of Samuel'S Lasagna. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before layering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your lasagna with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables also complement the dish beautifully. This hearty main can be paired with a glass of red wine for an indulgent meal. For more comforting Italian recipes, consider browsing related dishes like Easy Italian Supper.
Storage & Reheating
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, avoid microwaving, as it can make the noodles chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meaty Lasagna contains roughly 397 calories, with 24g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (109% of the Daily Value), calcium (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (52% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 893mg per serving (39% 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 use a different type of meat in this lasagna?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of meats can be used instead of beef. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a mix of sautéed vegetables, which can provide a hearty texture while still being delicious.
How do I make my lasagna less watery?
To prevent a watery lasagna, ensure that you drain the canned tomatoes well and consider using less sauce in each layer. You can also add a bit of cornstarch to the sauce to thicken it or allow it to simmer longer to reduce excess liquid before assembling the dish.
Can I prepare lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge to ensure it's heated thoroughly.
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).