Yet Another Lasagna Recipe
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Prep Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Description:
This lasagna recipe has a charming backstory – originating from the “ex-sister-in-law” of the contributor, it has evolved over the years into a family favorite. Imagine being introduced to lasagna for the first time at 24! The dish holds sentimental value, associated with memories of a festive Christmas Eve dinner shared with loved ones. The sauce, described as “DEE-LUUXE” and “DEE-LIGHTFUL,” is the star of the show, elevating this classic comfort food to new heights. Paired with a fresh salad, crusty bread, and a fine wine, this lasagna promises to be a memorable addition to any gathering.
Recipe Category: Weeknight
Keywords: Oven, < 4 Hours
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 693.8
- Fat Content: 48g
- Saturated Fat Content: 25.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 214.9mg
- Sodium Content: 1689.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 18.2g
- Fiber Content: 3.2g
- Sugar Content: 9.5g
- Protein Content: 48.4g
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 pounds ground chuck
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pepper to taste
- Shortening
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 can (28 ounces) whole tomatoes, undrained and chopped
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 16 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
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Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, brown the ground chuck and onion in a bit of shortening over medium heat until the onion is tender. Drain excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer the sauce for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Prepare the Cheese Mixture: While the sauce simmers, in a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley until well combined.
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Layer the Lasagna: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish or pan, begin layering the lasagna. Start by covering the bottom of the dish with a layer of lasagna noodles. Next, spread a portion of the meat sauce over the noodles, followed by a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture and slices of mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers twice more, finishing with a final layer of noodles and the remaining meat sauce on top.
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Add Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses over the top of the lasagna. Finish by evenly distributing the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
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Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40 minutes, or until the lasagna is bubbling and heated through.
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Brown the Cheese: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly browned on top.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the lasagna from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish with your favorite sides and a glass of wine for a truly satisfying meal.
This lasagna recipe is a labor of love, combining rich flavors and comforting textures to create a dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends on any occasion. Whether it’s a special holiday dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this lasagna is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
