Introduction
Lasagna is a beloved comfort food that brings together layers of rich tomato sauce, creamy béchamel, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. This step-by-step guide will walk you through making the perfect homemade lasagna that’s flavorful, hearty, and sure to impress. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a family dinner, a gathering, or meal prep, this recipe will be your go-to. Plus, we’ve included keto and low-carb versions for those watching their carb intake.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
For the Cheese Layer:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Pasta Layer:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and sugar.
- Simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
- Stir well until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce.
- Add a layer of lasagna noodles.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with mozzarella on top.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Notes & Variations
Keto Version:
- Replace lasagna noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant.
- Use sugar-free tomato sauce.
Low-Carb Version:
- Swap regular lasagna noodles for cabbage leaves or cheese wraps.
- Reduce the amount of tomato sauce to lower carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
2. Can I freeze lasagna?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
3. What’s the best cheese for lasagna?
Mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta make the best combination for a creamy and rich flavor.
Conclusion
Homemade lasagna is a rewarding dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. With our keto and low-carb modifications, everyone can enjoy this classic favorite. Try it today and let us know how it turned out!
