This lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, packed with layers of cheesy goodness and rich meat sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends!
I swear, the smell of it baking makes everyone come running! I like to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a tasty finish. Who can resist a hearty slice? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the meat sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian version, you can substitute with lentils or mushrooms!
Pork: While optional, pork adds great flavor. If you prefer to keep it all beef or want a leaner mix, feel free to skip it or replace it with extra ground beef.
Ricotta Cheese: A creamy layer in the lasagna. If you can’t find ricotta, cottage cheese blended until smooth or even green yogurt can work as alternatives, although they will change the flavor slightly.
Lasagna Noodles: You can use traditional noodles or no-boil versions. If gluten-free, look for gluten-free lasagna sheets available at most stores.
Cheese: Mozzarella makes this dish super cheesy. For a twist, try using provolone for some added flavor or a blend of cheeses for varied taste!
How Do I Get the Meat Sauce Just Right?
The key to a delicious meat sauce lies in letting it simmer slowly. This deepens the flavors and creates a rich sauce. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat and don’t rush the browning of the meat; it’s crucial for flavor.
- Add the tomatoes and herbs after the meat is well-cooked, and allow the mixture to simmer for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking!
- Adding a splash of red wine enhances the sauce’s taste, but feel free to skip it if you prefer. If you do, you can replace it with more water or broth.
What’s the Best Way to Layer Lasagna?
Layering might seem tricky, but it’s simple! Here’s how to get the perfect structure:
- Begin with meat sauce on the bottom to prevent noodles from sticking.
- Place noodles directly on the sauce, ensuring they cover the area evenly.
- Spread ricotta evenly, then sprinkle mozzarella. Don’t skimp on the mozzarella—it’s what makes lasagna so delightful!
- Repeat until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and lots of mozzarella on top.
These tips will help you craft an impressive lasagna that everyone will love! Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish!
World’s Best Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Meat Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork (optional, can use all beef)
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water or red wine
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Ricotta Mixture:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna will take around 30 minutes to prepare and about an hour to bake. Including rest time, the total time will be about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Perfect for a weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it gets fragrant.
2. Cook the Meats:
Add the ground beef and pork to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until well browned, about 8-10 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off before proceeding.
3. Create the Flavor Base:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water or red wine. Season with basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture come to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to gently simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a separate medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well blended and set aside.
5. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and lay them flat on a lightly oiled baking sheet. If using no-boil noodles, you can skip this step!
6. Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer with 3-4 lasagna noodles, making sure to overlap as needed.
7. Add the Cheesy Layers:
Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles and sprinkle with one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Next, add another layer of meat sauce on top and repeat the layers—noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella—two more times. For the top, finish with a generous layer of mozzarella.
8. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent sticking (make sure the foil doesn’t touch the cheese). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Cool it Down:
Once baked, let the lasagna rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers to set nicely, making it easier to serve!
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil on top. Serve hot and enjoy every cheesy, meaty, delicious bite of your world’s best lasagna!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Lasagna?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground pork with more ground beef or try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, use lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of hearty vegetables instead!
How Do I Prevent the Noodles From Sticking Together?
If using regular lasagna noodles, make sure to lay them flat on a lightly oiled baking sheet after cooking to prevent them from sticking. You can also stir a little olive oil into the boiling water while cooking to help with separation!
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the lasagna up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it goes in the oven cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm it up in the oven until heated through. Enjoy it just like fresh!
