Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this incredible lasagna recipe, perfectly sized for a Mueller's Box (or any similarly sized baking dish)! Forget complicated layering techniques and hours of prep – this recipe delivers big on flavor and satisfaction without the fuss. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its best, and a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage, or a vegetarian substitute like lentils)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 9 lasagna noodles (oven-ready preferred, but regular noodles work too)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This step is key to achieving a rich and flavorful sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and chopped parsley. Mix well until thoroughly combined. This creamy mixture will add a lovely texture and flavor contrast to the lasagna.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your Mueller's Box (or a similarly sized baking dish). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish. Top with three lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping if needed. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by another layer of meat sauce. Repeat the process: noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, and the remaining meat sauce. Finish with a final layer of noodles, and generously top with mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the lasagna is heated through. If using regular lasagna noodles, you may need to add a few extra minutes to ensure they are cooked through. Let it stand for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the lasagna to set and makes it easier to serve without it falling apart.
Tips and Variations:
- For a vegetarian lasagna, substitute the ground beef with lentils or vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
- Add a layer of spinach or mushrooms to the ricotta mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different cheeses – provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all work well.
- For a spicier lasagna, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- To save time, use no-boil lasagna noodles.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 20-25g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This delicious lasagna recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy this easy and flavorful dish, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. It's a surefire way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort! Remember to adjust the baking time depending on your oven and the type of lasagna noodles used. Happy cooking!