Classic and Traditional Lasagna is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something rich and satisfying. This recipe features layers of flavorful meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella, all nestled between tender lasagna noodles. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious lasagna that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients for Classic and Traditional Lasagna
For the Meat Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef: The primary protein in the sauce, providing richness and flavor.
- 1/2 pound ground pork (optional; you can use all beef if preferred): Adds additional flavor and richness to the sauce.
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes: Forms the base of the sauce, giving it body and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that thickens and enriches the sauce.
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional): Adds depth of flavor and richness to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, herbal flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
For the Ricotta Mixture:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess to the lasagna layers.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture, giving it structure.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds freshness and color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the flavor of the ricotta mixture.
Additional Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions and drained: Forms the layers of the lasagna.
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully and adds a gooey, cheesy layer.
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese for topping: Adds extra flavor and a golden crust.
Instructions: How to Make Classic and Traditional Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the Ground Meat:
- Add the 1 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound of ground pork (if using) to the skillet. Cook the meat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Tomatoes and Flavorings:
- Stir in the 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1/2 cup of red wine (if using), 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
- Mix the Ricotta Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the Lasagna:
- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place 3 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, a layer of shredded mozzarella, and another layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layers (noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, meat sauce) until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce topped with the remaining mozzarella and some extra grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent the cheese from burning) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the lasagna is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the lasagna cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the layers set and make it easier to cut clean slices.
Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Noodle Tips: To prevent the noodles from sticking together, drizzle a little olive oil over them after draining and gently toss.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- Freezing: Lasagna freezes well. You can freeze the whole casserole or individual portions. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Variations of Classic Lasagna
Here are some ways to customize your Classic and Traditional Lasagna:
- Vegetarian Lasagna: Replace the meat sauce with a marinara sauce and add layers of sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms.
- White Lasagna: Substitute the tomato-based meat sauce with a creamy Alfredo or béchamel sauce and add cooked chicken or seafood for a different flavor profile.
- Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna: Add sautéed spinach to the ricotta mixture for a nutritious twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use oven-ready lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use oven-ready lasagna noodles. Just follow the package instructions, as they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
2. What can I serve with lasagna?
Lasagna pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
3. Can I use all beef instead of a mix of beef and pork?
Yes, you can use all ground beef if you prefer. The pork adds extra flavor, but the lasagna will still be delicious with just beef.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
5. Can I add extra cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add extra mozzarella or Parmesan between the layers or on top for an extra cheesy lasagna.
A Classic Comfort Dish
Classic and Traditional Lasagna is a timeless dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of flavorful meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just because, this lasagna recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to deliver delicious results.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy making (and eating) this comforting and satisfying lasagna that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
