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The foundation of any great lasagna is its ingredients. The care you take in selecting and preparing each component will significantly impact the final result. Here’s a closer look at what makes each ingredient essential for creating a mouthwatering lasagna.

Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce

Dive into the comforting world of lasagna, a beloved dish that unites family and friends around the dinner table. This classic Italian recipe is all about delicious layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella. Discover essential tips for preparing the perfect lasagna, from choosing the right noodles to crafting a rich meat sauce. Whether for special occasions or cozy dinners, mastering this dish will surely enhance your culinary skills and create lasting memories.
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Ingredients
  

9 lasagna noodles (unmarked, preferably no-boil)

1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for flavor)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

15 oz ricotta cheese

1 large egg

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large pan over medium heat, sauté the diced onion for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it browns. Drain excess fat.

      Add Tomato Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Allow the meat sauce to simmer on low for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

        Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

          Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Layer half of the ricotta mixture, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese, then a layer of meat sauce. Repeat this process with another layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, another third of the mozzarella, and more meat sauce. Top with the last layer of noodles, remaining meat sauce, and the rest of the mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan.

            Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

              Uncover and Brown: After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.

                Cool and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the lasagna cool for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.

                  Prep Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins | Servings: 8