There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty lasagna, and this Traditional Italian Lasagna delivers just that. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey cheese, it’s a timeless classic perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ground beef and ground pork form the hearty base of the sauce, offering a rich, savory flavor. Onion and garlic are sautéed to add a robust aromatic base. The crushed tomatoes and tomato paste provide the sauce with its essential tomato base, while dried basil and oregano bring those classic Italian herb flavors. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. Lasagna noodles are the backbone of the dish, separating each flavorful layer. The ricotta cheese mixed with an egg offers a creamy contrast to the meat sauce. Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese create a golden, bubbly topping that’s irresistible. Finally, a touch of olive oil helps sauté the vegetables to perfection.
This robust lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. A side of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the extra sauce. For a complete Italian feast, serve with a glass of red wine, like Chianti or Sangiovese.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures it's hot and ready when you are, so you’re not left waiting around later. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, which should take about 5 minutes.
Next, add the ground beef and pork to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. You’ll want to brown the meat thoroughly, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Once browned, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for about 30 minutes to develop those deep, rich flavors.
While your sauce is simmering, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re al dente, drain them and set them aside to cool slightly. In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese with the egg and a pinch of salt. This mixture will be your creamy layer.
Now it’s time to assemble. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce. Then, lay down a layer of noodles, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat these layers, making sure to use up all your ingredients, and finish with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. This steams the layers, melding them together beautifully. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 25 minutes until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before serving; this helps it set and makes it easier to slice.
Share