Simple Italian Baked Lasagna π
Overview:
- Name: Simple Italian Baked Lasagna
- Cook Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Description: This classic Italian dish is a favorite among many. Perfect for any occasion, it pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad and warm French bread. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it ideal for meal prep. Enjoy one pan now and save another for later!
- Recipe Source: Cooking Italian Love with Recipes
- Rating: βββββ (5/5) from 4 reviews
- Servings: 15
- Keywords: Lunch/Snacks, Cheese, Vegetable, European, Kid Friendly, Potluck, Weeknight, For Large Groups, Oven, Beginner Cook, < 4 Hours, Easy
Ingredients:
Quantity | Ingredient |
---|---|
1 | Ricotta cheese |
2 | Parmesan cheese |
1 | Mozzarella cheese |
1/2 | Onion |
1 | Garlic cloves |
3/4 | Salt |
2 | Eggs |
2 | Ground beef |
Lasagna noodles | |
Italian seasoning | |
Lasagna sauce |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 414.4
- Fat: 21.9g
- Saturated Fat: 10.9g
- Cholesterol: 111.6mg
- Sodium: 627.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 25.4g
- Fiber: 1.1g
- Sugar: 1.4g
- Protein: 27.6g
Instructions:
-
Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
- Follow the package directions to cook the lasagna noodles until they are tender but still firm.
- Drain them and keep them warm.
-
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
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- Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and lasagna sauce to the skillet, and mix everything well.
- Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 12-15 minutes.
-
Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, combine the eggs and ricotta cheese until well mixed.
-
Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C).
- Grease a 9″ x 12″ or larger baking pan.
- Start by arranging a layer of lasagna noodles in the bottom of the greased pan, ensuring that the ends hang over the sides.
- Next, add a layer of the cooked beef lasagna sauce, followed by dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Continue layering with noodles, meat sauce, and cheese until the pan is almost full.
- Fold over the ends of the first layer of noodles and top with more lasagna sauce.
- Sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese.
-
Bake the Lasagna:
- Place the assembled lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
-
Let it Rest:
- Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the lasagna into portions and serve hot alongside a fresh garden salad and warm French bread.
Recipe Notes:
-
Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. You can use Italian sausage instead of ground beef, or add a can of chopped tomatoes to the sauce mixture for extra flavor. Mixing shredded Parmesan cheese into the ricotta adds a delightful boost of cheesiness.
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Freezing Instructions: This lasagna freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Simply assemble the lasagna in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
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Make Ahead: You can also prepare this lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This is a great option for busy weeknights or when hosting gatherings. Simply assemble the lasagna, cover, and refrigerate until needed. Then, bake as directed when ready to serve.
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Storage: Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
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Meal Pairing: This Simple Italian Baked Lasagna pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Kid-Friendly: With its rich and comforting flavors, this lasagna is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a hearty and delicious dish that the whole family will love.
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Beginner-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks looking to impress. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have a delicious homemade lasagna on the table in no time!
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Potluck Favorite: Whether you’re hosting a potluck dinner or attending a gathering with friends and family, this Simple Italian Baked Lasagna is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing.
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Weeknight Wonder: While lasagna may seem like a special occasion dish, this recipe is actually perfect for busy weeknights too. With minimal prep and hands-on time, you can have a wholesome and comforting meal on the table in just over an hour.
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For Large Groups: This recipe yields 15 servings, making it ideal for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or feeding a hungry group of friends, this Simple Italian Baked Lasagna is sure to satisfy everyone’s appetite.