Mama’s Favorite Lasagna is a quintessential Italian-American dish, brimming with savory flavors and cheesy goodness, making it an ideal choice for a hearty family dinner or a gathering with friends. With a total preparation time of just over two hours, including both prep and cook time, this recipe promises a delicious meal that’s worth the effort. Whether you’re craving a taste of Europe, seeking a satisfying weeknight meal, catering to a large group, or simply looking for a dish that can be whipped up in under four hours, this lasagna recipe has you covered.
This culinary masterpiece is crafted with carefully selected ingredients, each contributing its unique essence to the overall flavor profile. To bring Mama’s Favorite Lasagna to life, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups of provolone cheese
- 2 cups of whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 sweet bell peppers
- 12 fresh mushrooms
- 8 ounces of Italian sweet sausage
- 8 ounces of lean ground beef
- 8 ounces of asiago cheese
- 1 egg
These quantities are tailored to serve approximately 18 people, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or for leftovers to enjoy throughout the week.
To embark on the culinary journey of creating Mama’s Favorite Lasagna, set aside approximately 35 minutes for preparation and 1 hour and 35 minutes for cooking. This ensures that every layer is infused with the rich flavors of the ingredients, resulting in a lasagna that’s nothing short of spectacular.
Before diving into the assembly process, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and ensure you have a large roasting pan and a small pan handy to catch any potential run-over during baking.
Now, let’s delve into the step-by-step instructions to create this mouthwatering lasagna:
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Prep the Pan: To prevent the lasagna noodles from sticking, lightly rub a little vegetable oil on the bottom of the pan. This ensures that each slice of lasagna can be effortlessly lifted from the pan, maintaining its integrity.
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Cook the Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles until they reach your desired level of firmness. Whether you prefer them al dente or a bit softer, cooking the noodles to perfection sets the foundation for a flawless lasagna.
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Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta cheese with one egg, the ground round, and the Italian sweet sausage. This flavorful mixture adds depth and richness to each layer of the lasagna, elevating its taste to new heights.
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Layering Process: Assemble the lasagna layers in the prepared pan, starting with a base of noodles. Alternate between layers of provolone and mozzarella cheese, interspersed with dollops of the ricotta mixture. This layering technique ensures that every bite is bursting with cheesy goodness.
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Add the Vegetables and Meat: Enhance the lasagna’s flavor profile by adding sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, and pepperoni between every other layer. These vibrant ingredients infuse the dish with a medley of textures and tastes, creating a symphony of flavors with each bite.
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Cover and Bake: Once the layers are assembled, cover the pan with foil, making sure to create a vent in the middle to allow steam to escape during baking. Place the lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 35 minutes, or until the lasagna is cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into generous portions. Serve alongside a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
With each slice boasting a tantalizing blend of cheeses, meats, and vegetables, Mama’s Favorite Lasagna is a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner or showcased at a festive gathering, this lasagna recipe is guaranteed to delight your taste buds and leave your guests clamoring for seconds. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that’s as rewarding as it is delicious!
