Original Italian Lasagna
A hearty Italian lasagna layered with rich meat sauce and melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and gatherings that love classic comfort food flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a frying pan.
- In a saucepan, empty the cans of tomato paste.
- To each large can of paste, add one can of water; to each small can, add two cans of water.
- Simmer all ingredients for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. Fresh basil can replace dried herbs for a more vibrant taste. If you prefer a creamier texture, layer in some ricotta cheese between the noodles. This recipe is similar to Traditional Baked Lasagna, offering a comforting dish for family gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lasagna with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of red wine for an authentic Italian experience. For a twist, alongside this dish, consider serving Italian Macaroni Pie as an additional side. This hearty lasagna makes for great leftovers, perfect for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the lasagna with foil to prevent drying. Heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Original Italian Lasagna contains roughly 368 calories, with 13g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (78% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (77% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1285mg per serving (56% 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 lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, or adjust the baking time accordingly if it's still cold.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for mozzarella, provolone or fontina cheese are great alternatives that melt well. For a lower-fat option, consider using part-skim mozzarella. You can also mix in some ricotta for extra creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of your lasagna.
How can I prevent my lasagna from being watery?
To prevent a watery lasagna, make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef after browning. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of water added to the tomato paste or use crushed tomatoes instead for a thicker sauce. Allowing it to rest for a few minutes before slicing also helps set the layers.
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).