The Most Amazing Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Bolognese Sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, finely diced
1 celery stalk, finely diced
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 lb (450g) ground pork
1/2 cup dry white or red wine (optional)
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
For the Ricotta Mixture:
15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tablespoons dried parsley)
Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
12 lasagna noodles (about one box)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bolognese Sauce:
Sauté Vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef and ground pork to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
Deglaze the Pan:
If using wine, pour it in now and cook for a few minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Simmer the Sauce:
Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the milk or cream in the last 10 minutes of cooking to add richness and balance the acidity.
2. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
Mix Ingredients:
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Cook the Noodles:
Cook According to Package Instructions:
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a sheet of parchment paper or a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Layer the Lasagna:
ADVERTISEMENT
