Description
Delightful mixed up lasagna combines classic Italian flavors with a playful twist. Layered ingredients create a comforting meal you’ll savor from first bite to last.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Protein:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 onion
Dairy and Cheese:
- 15 ounces (425 grams) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Pasta and Sauce:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 24 ounces (680 grams) marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare lasagna noodles according to package instructions, ensuring they are al dente and not overcooked.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, sautéing minced garlic and diced onions until translucent and fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs, then cook until meat is completely browned and no pink remains.
- Pour marinara sauce into the skillet, stirring to combine with the meat, and allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes to develop rich flavors.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and select a deep baking dish for layering.
- Create the first layer by spreading a thin coat of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish, then arrange lasagna noodles to cover completely.
- Spread a generous layer of ricotta cheese over the noodles, followed by meat sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layering process, ensuring each layer is evenly distributed and covers the entire surface.
- Finish the top layer with remaining meat sauce and generously sprinkle Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes to set and make slicing easier.
- Slice and serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Enhance noodle texture by cooking them just shy of al dente, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven and absorb sauce.
- Boost meat flavor by using a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage for extra depth and richness.
- Make the dish gluten-free by substituting traditional lasagna noodles with zucchini slices or gluten-free pasta alternatives.
- Control portion sizes and reduce calories by using low-fat ricotta and part-skim mozzarella cheese without compromising taste.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg