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Classic Beef Lasagna Layers

Classic Beef Lasagna Layers That Make Your Heart Sing

Classic Beef Lasagna Layers is a comforting dish combining rich flavors and layered goodness.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness and aids in sautéing.
  • 1 medium Onion, finely chopped Provides an aromatic flavor base.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Enhances the dish's depth with savory notes.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef The main protein offering a hearty texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano Essential herbs for classic Italian flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Basil Essential herbs for classic Italian flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adds a hint of heat.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Intensifies the tomato flavor in the sauce.
  • 28 ounce Crushed Tomatoes Forms the base of the rich meat sauce.
  • 15 ounce Tomato Sauce Adds moisture and flavor to the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Balances acidity and enhances sweetness.
For the Cheese Layer
  • 16 ounces Whole-Milk Ricotta Cheese Creates a creamy layer.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the ricotta and improves consistency.
  • 1/3 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds a nutty depth.
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley Brings freshness to the cheese layer.
For Layering
  • 12 pieces Lasagna Noodles Provide structure for the layers.
  • 3 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Melts beautifully for topping.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds additional flavor and texture.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add one finely chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  2. Increase heat to medium-high, add 1 pound of ground beef, and season. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring until browned.
  3. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes, 15 ounces of tomato sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Simmer for about 20 minutes.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine 16 ounces of ricotta cheese, 1 egg, 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan, and 2 tablespoons of parsley. Mix until well blended.
  5. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer meat sauce, noodles, and cheese mixture. Repeat until finished, topping with remaining meat sauce and cheeses.
  6. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
  7. Once baked, let lasagna rest for about 15 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Cover with foil during the first half of baking to avoid burning. Allowing the lasagna to rest improves flavors and set layers.

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