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Easy Cheese Lasagna

Easy Cheese Lasagna Recipe
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This easy cheese lasagna recipe is a classic comfort food dish, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of cheeses create a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound lasagna noodles
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground lamb
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 (6 ounce) cans tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
  2. While noodles cook, prepare the meat sauce. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  3. Add ground beef or ground lamb to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, basil, oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will be.
  5. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  8. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.
  9. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
  10. Top with a layer of mozzarella cheese.
  11. Add another layer of meat sauce.
  12. Repeat layers: noodles, remaining ricotta, mozzarella, and meat sauce.
  13. Finish with a final layer of noodles, topped with remaining meat sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  14. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
  15. Bake for 25 minutes.
  16. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
  17. Let the lasagna stand for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine or beef broth to the meat sauce while it simmers.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian lasagna, omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini to the sauce.
  • Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • This recipe can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if baking from cold.
  • You can freeze baked lasagna for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenvan.com/easy-cheese-lasagna-recipe/