This classic lasagna, inspired by Maggiano’s, features layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and gooey mozzarella for a satisfying, hearty dish. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tbsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp fennel seeds
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1 tbsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Cheese Filling:
– 16 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Lasagna:
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 16 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
**Directions:**
1️⃣ Prepare the Meat Sauce:
– In a large pot, cook ground beef, sausage, onion, and garlic over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
– Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Add sugar, basil, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley.
– Simmer covered for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
2️⃣ Prepare the Cheese Filling:
– In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well.
3️⃣ Cook the Noodles:
– Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
4️⃣ Assemble the Lasagna:
– Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Spread 1 cup of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish.
– Layer 3 noodles over the sauce, spread one-third of the ricotta mixture, and top with one-third of mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan.
– Repeat layers two more times, ending with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
5️⃣ Bake:
– Cover with foil (sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking).
– Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
– Let cool for 15 minutes before serving.
✨ Tips:
– Allow the sauce to simmer for rich flavor and proper thickness.
– Pair with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal!
