Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Olive oil
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
1.1 Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
1.2 Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
1.3 Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
1.4 If using ground beef or sausage, add it to the skillet and cook until browned. Break it into small pieces as it cooks.
1.5 Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
1.6 Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
2.1 Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt to the boiling water.
2.2 Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente.
2.3 Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
3.1 In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and egg until well combined. You can also add chopped parsley for extra flavor.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
4.1 Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4.2 In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the prepared meat sauce on the bottom.
4.3 Place 3 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
4.4 Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
4.5 Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta mixture.
4.6 Spoon a layer of meat sauce over the cheese.
5. Repeat the Layers:
5.1 Place another layer of 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
5.2 Spread the remaining ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
5.3 Sprinkle more shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta mixture.
5.4 Add another layer of meat sauce.
6. Final Layer:
6.1 Top the lasagna with the final layer of 3 lasagna noodles.
6.2 Spread a generous amount of meat sauce over the noodles.
6.3 Sprinkle a good amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Bake:
7.1 Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, tenting it slightly to prevent cheese from sticking to the foil.
7.2 Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes.
7.3 Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let It Rest:
8.1 Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
9. Serve:
9.1 Slice the lasagna into portions and serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for garnish, if desired.
Enjoy your homemade lasagna!