Description
A comforting, layered lasagna with a rich meat sauce and creamy ricotta, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp dried basil (plus 1/4 tsp for ricotta)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 16 oz full-fat ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 9 lasagna noodles (uncooked)
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil over medium. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds.
- Add ground beef and pork, breaking meat into pieces and browning thoroughly. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, 1/4 tsp dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook noodles per package instructions until al dente. Drain and arrange flat to prevent sticking.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce across the bottom of a 9×13″ baking dish. Lay three noodles across, dollop and spread half the ricotta mixture, then sprinkle 1 1/3 cups mozzarella.
- Add another layer of sauce and repeat with another noodle layer, ricotta, mozzarella, and sauce. Finish with a final layer of noodles, remaining sauce, remaining mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For a creamier ricotta layer, mix until very smooth. Let lasagna rest for 15 minutes before cutting for neat slices.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian