Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also impressive enough for a dinner party? Look no further than this incredible lasagna recipe! Packed with spinach, creamy ricotta, and rich layers of pasta, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, using fresh spinach for added nutrients. Get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
This lasagna recipe serves 6-8 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- For the meat sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage for a richer flavor)
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- For the cheese mixture:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, chopped and sautéed until wilted
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Other ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles (oven-ready preferred for ease)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Prepare the ricotta mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Assemble the lasagna: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella cheese. Top with the remaining 3 lasagna noodles, the rest of the meat sauce, and the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.
Rest and serve: Let the lasagna rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the lasagna to set and makes it easier to serve.
Tips for the Best Lasagna:
- Use oven-ready lasagna noodles: This saves you the step of pre-boiling the noodles.
- Don't overcook the meat sauce: A slightly chunky sauce is best.
- Taste and adjust seasonings: Add more herbs, salt, or pepper to your liking.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and bake it the next day. Just keep it refrigerated and add an extra 15 minutes to the baking time.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Lasagna: Omit the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the meat sauce for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Lasagna: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a kick.
- Add different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like provolone or Fontina.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Fat: 25-30g Protein: 25-30g Carbohydrates: 40-50g
Enjoy your delicious and satisfying homemade lasagna! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Let us know in the comments how your lasagna turned out!