Introduction
Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish known for its comforting layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese. This recipe takes a hearty approach by combining ground chuck and Italian sausage with a homemade ricotta mixture and flavorful marinara sauce. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this lasagna is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 large egg
15 ounces ricotta cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 pound ground chuck
1 pound Italian sausage
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup dry red wine
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 jars (24 ounces each) marinara sauce
12 no-boil lasagna noodles
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-60 minutes
Yield: Serves 8
This lasagna is the perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a delightful meal that will leave everyone satisfied. Enjoy crafting this delicious dish, and don’t forget to let it rest before serving to enhance the flavors even more!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, whisk the egg, then mix in ricotta cheese and chopped parsley until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground chuck and Italian sausage; cook until browned, breaking the meat apart as it cooks.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add diced onion and minced garlic to the meat; cook until the onion is translucent.
Step 4: Add Wine
Pour in dry red wine; cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
Step 5: Stir in Sauce and Seasoning
Stir in crushed red pepper flakes and marinara sauce; bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 6: Reserve Some Sauce
Remove half of the meat sauce from the Dutch oven and set aside.
Step 7: Layer Noodles
Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the remaining sauce in the Dutch oven.
Step 8: Add Ricotta Mixture
Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
Step 9: Sprinkle Mozzarella
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer.
Step 10: Repeat Layering
Repeat the layering process: add half of the reserved meat sauce, 4 lasagna noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
Step 11: Final Layering
Top with the remaining meat sauce, 4 lasagna noodles, and the final cup of mozzarella cheese.
Step 12: Add Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer.
Step 13: Cook the Lasagna
Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and cook over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 14: Rest Before Serving
Remove from heat and let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Cheese Variations
Feel free to substitute other types of cheese based on your preference.
Note 2: Spice Level
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level.
Note 3: Storage
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note 4: Freezing Instructions
This lasagna can be frozen before cooking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Cook techniques
Whisking
Whisking is a technique used to blend ingredients smoothly together. In this recipe, whisk the egg to incorporate air, which helps to build structure in the ricotta mixture.
Brown the Meat
Browning meat involves cooking it at a relatively high temperature until it develops a brown crust. This creates depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking method that uses a small amount of fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, onions and garlic are sautéed with the meat to release their flavors.
Deglazing
Deglazing involves adding liquid to a pan to loosen browned bits stuck to the bottom. In this recipe, red wine is used to deglaze the Dutch oven, enhancing the sauce’s flavor.
Layering
Layering is crucial for building flavors and textures in dishes like lasagna. The recipe involves alternating layers of noodles, meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese.
Simmering
Simmering is cooking food gently in liquid, producing small bubbles. This technique is used to meld flavors in the meat sauce after adding the marinara sauce.
Resting
Allowing the lasagna to rest after cooking helps the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve. This technique enhances the overall texture and presentation.
FAQ
Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?
Yes, cottage cheese can be used in place of ricotta; however, it may alter the texture slightly.
What can I use instead of no-boil lasagna noodles?
You can use regular lasagna noodles; just be sure to pre-cook them according to package instructions before layering.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate or freeze it before baking. Just adjust the cooking time if it’s baked directly from the fridge or freezer.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, you can omit the ground chuck and Italian sausage and include more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini instead.
What should I serve with lasagna?
Lasagna pairs well with a simple side salad and garlic bread to complete the meal.
Conclusion
Making this rich and hearty lasagna brings together layers of flavors and textures, creating a comforting meal perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. With the combination of ground meats, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, it is sure to satisfy any pasta lover. Allowing the lasagna to rest before serving enhances its structure and makes it easier to slice. Enjoy this delightful dish with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete dining experience.
Vegetable Lasagna
Swap the ground meat with a mix of sautéed spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms for a lighter, vegetarian version. Layer with the ricotta mixture and mozzarella for a satisfying dish.
Mexican Lasagna
Use seasoned ground turkey, black beans, and salsa instead of marinara. Add layers of corn tortillas, ricotta, and Monterey Jack cheese for a flavorful twist.
Lasagna Roll-Ups
Instead of layering, spread the ricotta mixture over individual cooked lasagna noodles, roll them up, and place them in a baking dish with sauce and cheese on top.
Pesto Lasagna
Incorporate pesto into the ricotta mixture and use a blend of ricotta and mozzarella with sliced tomatoes for a bright and fresh flavor.
Seafood Lasagna
Use a combination of shrimp, crab, and scallops layered with a creamy white sauce and Parmesan for a luxurious seafood treat.
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna
Substitute shredded cooked chicken and mix it with an Alfredo sauce instead of marinara. Use fresh herbs and lots of cheese for a decadent flavor.
