Introduction
Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that is loved by many. It is a layered pasta dish that can be made in a variety of ways. In this recipe, we will be making lasagna with ricotta cheese and ground beef. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients
To make this lasagna recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) pasta sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat from the pan. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
Step 2: Add the Sauce
Add the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a simmer. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
While the sauce is simmering, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Cheese Filling
In a small mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and chopped parsley. Mix everything together until it is well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese filling on top of the noodles. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta cheese filling. Repeat these layers until all of the ingredients have been used up, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
Step 6: Bake the Lasagna
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the lasagna. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly.
Nutrition
This lasagna recipe makes 12 servings. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 461
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 1095mg
Conclusion
This lasagna recipe with ricotta cheese and ground beef is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking with different types of pasta sauce or cheese. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Italy in your own home.
