Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving a comforting, delicious meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This easy lasagna recipe is your new go-to for a quick, satisfying, and healthy meal the whole family will love. Forget complicated layering and long baking times; this recipe streamlines the classic lasagna, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best – delicious, satisfying, and surprisingly simple!
Ingredients: You'll need these simple ingredients for this easy lasagna recipe
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous weeknight dinner.
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 9 lasagna noodles (oven-ready preferred)
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions: Simple steps to a flavorful lasagna
This easy lasagna recipe is designed for even the busiest of cooks. The steps are straightforward, and the result is a delicious and satisfying meal.
Step 1: Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Simmer the sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step builds a rich and flavorful base for your lasagna. This is where you can adjust seasoning to your preference; a dash of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
Step 3: Prepare the ricotta mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well. This creamy mixture adds a wonderful contrast to the meat sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with a layer of lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping if needed. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by another layer of meat sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers: noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, remaining meat sauce, and the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the lasagna is heated through. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the lasagna to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Tips for the Best Lasagna
- Oven-ready noodles: Using no-boil lasagna noodles significantly reduces cooking time.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a little heat.
- Veggie boost: Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meat sauce for extra nutrients and flavor. This is a great way to sneak in extra vegetables for picky eaters!
- Make it ahead: Assemble the lasagna ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
Variations: Make it your own!
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Experiment with different cheeses, add your favorite vegetables, or try using ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef. The possibilities are endless! Consider a vegetarian version using lentils or mushrooms instead of meat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 20-25g Fat: Approximately 18-22g Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This easy lasagna recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a simple weeknight meal. Enjoy!