Classic Beef and Cheese Lasagna

Picture a cozy Italian trattoria nestled in a quaint corner of Tuscany, where the aroma of bubbling sauces and freshly baked pasta dances through the air. The Classic Beef and Cheese Lasagna, a time-honored recipe passed down through generations, embodies the heartwarming essence of Italian comfort cuisine. It’s a symphony of flavors, a culinary masterpiece that bridges the gap between nostalgia and indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 9 cooked lasagna noodles
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar, basil, and salt. Simmer for 20 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese and parsley.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Spread 1 cup of meat sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with 3 lasagna noodles.
5. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
6. Spoon 1 1/2 cups of meat sauce over the cheese, and top with 3 more noodles.
7. Layer the remaining ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
8. Spread 1 1/2 cups of meat sauce over the cheese, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
9. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
10. Let it cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 12 servings

Layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese come together in this Classic Beef and Cheese Lasagna.

Nutrition: Calories: 380, Total Fat: 20g, Carbohydrates: 23g, Protein: 28g

As you take the first forkful of this indulgent lasagna, the layers meld together in a harmonious union of textures and tastes. The velvety ricotta provides a luxurious contrast to the hearty meat sauce, while the blend of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a melty, golden crown atop the dish. Every bite is a journey through the essence of Italian culinary tradition, a timeless reminder of the power of food to connect us to our roots and bring joy to the present moment. Whether it’s a family gathering, a special occasion, or a simple weeknight dinner, the Classic Beef and Cheese Lasagna brings people together, just like the heartwarming embrace of an old friend.