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Classic Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese

Classic Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese: Comforting Layers of Flavor

Classic Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese is an easy and crowd-pleasing recipe that combines layers of rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Lasagna Layers
  • 12 ounces Lasagna Noodles Regular or no-boil
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can substitute with turkey or plant-based meat
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought
  • 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes Can use crushed for smoother sauce
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese or vegan ricotta can be used as alternatives
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Can substitute with provolone or dairy-free
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast works well for vegan options
  • 1 large Egg Omit for vegan approach
For Seasoning and Flavor
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning Can substitute with fresh basil or oregano
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Vegetable oil is a suitable alternative
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For Garnish
  • to taste Fresh Basil or Parsley Optional but recommended

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • baking dish
  • aluminum foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the lasagna noodles, cooking according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and lay flat on a towel.
  2. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and sauté until browned. Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Mix the Ricotta: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and grated Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  4. Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat oven to 375°F. In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, then noodles, followed by ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with sauce and cheeses on top.
  5. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Rest and Serve: Allow the lasagna to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure lasagna noodles are well-drained to avoid sogginess. Mix ricotta with egg and Parmesan for added creaminess. Allow to rest for slicing ease.

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