Nothing Beats Good Lasagna

This wonderful lasagna recipe combines layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, tender pasta, and plenty of gooey melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weekend meal, it’s a dish that brings joy bite after bite.

I’ve cherished this recipe since the first time I made it for my extended family. It quickly became a favorite because both kids and adults couldn’t resist going back for seconds.

Ingredients

• Meat Sauce:
• 450 grams ground beef or a mix of beef and pork (Creates a hearty and flavorful foundation)
• 1 small onion finely chopped (Adds a mild sweetness and depth)
• 3 cloves garlic minced (Essential for authentic Italian flavors)
• 790 grams canned crushed tomatoes (Brings body and richness – opt for high-quality brands)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (Deepens the tomato flavor)
• 400 grams canned tomato sauce (Smooth consistency for layering)
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (Balances acidity of tomatoes)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (Enhances the Italian aroma of the dish)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Adds herbal notes for complexity)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (Adjust to preference for perfectly seasoned sauce)

• Ricotta Mixture:
• 425 grams ricotta cheese (Adds creaminess to balance the rich meat sauce)
• 1 large egg (Helps bind the ricotta for a firmer texture)
• 25 grams grated Parmesan cheese (Brings sharp, nutty flavor)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley (Adds a hint of freshness for balance)

• Assembly:
• 12 lasagna noodles cooked according to package instructions (Perfect base for even layering)
• 400 grams shredded mozzarella cheese (Provides delicious melty goodness)
• 50 grams grated Parmesan cheese for topping (Completes the golden crust)

How To Make Nothing Beats Good Lasagna

Brown the Meat and Aromatics:

Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat in a large skillet. Stir frequently and break the meat into small pieces. Continue until the beef browns well and the onion softens, which should take around 10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat carefully.

Simmer the Sauce:

Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, basil, oregano, a bit of salt, and pepper into the skillet. Stir well to combine and reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Prepare Ricotta Mixture:

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, and parsley until smooth. Ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated for best layering results.

Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish:

Set your oven to 190°C to preheat while preparing the lasagna. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of a 23x33 cm baking dish to prevent the noodles from sticking.

Layer the Lasagna:

Place three noodles over the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture evenly across the noodles. Sprinkle a third of the mozzarella over this layer, followed by another third of the meat sauce. Repeat the process two more times until all ingredients are used, ending with meat sauce. Finally, top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

Bake the Lasagna:

Cover the dish with aluminium foil, coated lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and return to the oven, baking another 25 minutes. This step ensures the cheese on top melts and turns golden.

Fresh basil in the summer adds an amazing touch to the lasagna. I remember once growing my first herb garden, and using those fragrant basil leaves truly brought this dish to life.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in freezer-safe containers. Always reheat thoroughly before enjoying.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and zucchini. To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna noodles available in most stores.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette and serve with warm, crusty garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal. A glass of red wine like Chianti also makes for a perfect pairing.

This lasagna will become a meal you return to time and time again, whether it's for special gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner. Spread the love by sharing a hearty slice with those closest to you.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of meat is best for the sauce?

Ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork works well, providing a balanced flavor and richness to the sauce.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving for the best result.

→ What is the ideal cheese combination for the dish?

A mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses ensures the perfect blend of creaminess, stretch, and sharp flavor.

→ How can I prevent the noodles from sticking together?

After cooking, make sure to drain the noodles and lay them flat on a non-stick surface or lightly drizzle them with oil to avoid sticking.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for this dish?

Yes, you can substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free ones available at most grocery stores.