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Easy Lasagna: A Simple Recipe for Delicious Homemade Comfort Food

  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 80 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

Enjoy a comforting homemade lasagna with layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights, this dish is sure to delight everyone at the table!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 9 lasagna noodles
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
  2. Drain the noodles and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside on a clean kitchen towel or baking sheet to prevent sticking.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks.
  4. Once browned (about 5-7 minutes), drain excess fat.
  5. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for 3-4 minutes until onion is translucent.
  6. Stir in marinara sauce and let simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil to taste.
  7. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.
  8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  9. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  10. Place three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
  11. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese.
  12. Add another layer of meat sauce, then repeat: three more noodles, remaining ricotta, another third of mozzarella, and more meat sauce.
  13. For the final layer, place the last three noodles on top, cover with remaining meat sauce, and sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  14. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese.
  15. Bake for 25 minutes.
  16. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  17. Let sit for 15 minutes before slicing.
  18. Cut into squares and serve with fresh basil leaves on top.
  19. Pair with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Lasagna can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day!
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes

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Find it online: https://recipefantastic.com/easy-lasagna/