Meat Lovers Lasagna

This delicious and hearty Meat Lovers Lasagna is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Loaded with melty cheeses, savory sauce, and two kinds of meat, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It’s an ideal choice for comforting weeknight meals or special occasions, showcasing the richness of Italian cuisine in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: This lasagna is packed with protein and flavor, making it a filling meal for any appetite.
• Cheesy Goodness: With layers of ricotta, mozzarella, and provolone cheese, every bite is a cheesy delight.
• Easy to Prepare: The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice cooks can create a delicious dish with confidence.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this lasagna can easily be adjusted to suit various tastes.
• Freeze for Later: Leftovers can be frozen, making it easy to enjoy this meal on busy nights.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this amazing Meat Lovers Lasagna, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater

Why These Tools Matter

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: Perfect size for layering your lasagna evenly for optimal cooking.
• Skillet: Great for sautéing vegetables and browning meat before layering in the lasagna.

Ingredients

This delicious and hearty Meat Lovers Lasagna is loaded with melty cheese, delicious sauce, and two kinds of meat!

For the Cheese Mixture

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 16 ounces mozzarella cheese, freshly grated, divided
• 6 ounces parmesan cheese, freshly grated, divided
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced
• 3/4 cup onion, diced
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1 1/4 pounds lean ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground chicken chicken chicken italian sausage

For the Sauce Base

• 1-29 ounce can tomato sauce
• 1-29 ounce can crushed tomatoes in puree
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup red grape juice
• 2 tablespoons Italian Herb seasoning
• 1-3 teaspoons granulated sugar (see notes)

For Assembly

• 1-16 ounce package lasagna noodles
• 8 ounces provolone cheese slices
• More basil to garnish, optional

How to Make Meat Lovers Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine:
1. Ricotta cheese,
2. 8 oz of freshly grated mozzarella,
3. 2 oz of freshly grated parmesan,
4. Egg,
5. Salt,
6. Black pepper,
7. Chopped parsley,
8. Chopped basil.

Cover the mixture and refrigerate until you are ready to assemble the lasagna.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables and Meat

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add olive oil.
2. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add diced carrots, onions, and celery; cook until tender (about 5 minutes).
4. Add lean ground beef and ground chicken sausage; cook until browned (around 7–10 minutes).
5. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

To the cooked meat mixture:
1. Stir in tomato sauce,
2. Crushed tomatoes in puree,
3. Tomato paste,
4. Red grape juice,
5. Italian Herb seasoning,
6. Sugar (if desired).

Simmer for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased baking dish:
1. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom.
2. Layer noodles on top.
3. Spread half of the cheese mixture over noodles.
4. Add another layer of meat sauce followed by more noodles.
5. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used up.
6. Top with remaining mozzarella and provolone cheese.

Step 5: Bake & Serve

Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes; uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Let it cool slightly before serving garnished with fresh basil if desired! Enjoy your delicious Meat Lovers Lasagna!

How to Serve Meat Lovers Lasagna

Serving Meat Lovers Lasagna is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few thoughtful additions. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce and adds a delicious crunchy texture.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons complements the richness of the lasagna.
• Italian Chopped Salad: This salad combines fresh vegetables, olives, and Italian dressing for a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Grated Cheese

• Extra Parmesan: Offer freshly grated parmesan cheese on the side for guests to sprinkle over their servings.

Include a Beverage Option

• Sparkling Water: Crisp sparkling water with lemon or lime slices refreshes the palate between bites.
• Iced Tea: A glass of iced tea can provide a nice balance to the savory flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Meat Lovers Lasagna

To achieve the ultimate Meat Lovers Lasagna, consider these handy tips that will elevate your dish.

• Bold Layering: Make sure to layer the ingredients generously for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and high-quality cheeses to enhance flavors and textures.
• Let it Rest: Allow your lasagna to rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
• Check Doneness: Ensure the noodles are cooked properly according to package instructions so they don’t become mushy during baking.
• Customize Seasoning: Adjust seasonings based on personal preferences; taste as you go to get it just right.

Best Side Dishes for Meat Lovers Lasagna

Pairing your Meat Lovers Lasagna with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic add both flavor and nutrition.
2. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made of tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze brings bright flavors to your plate.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch and balances out the richness of the lasagna.
4. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an exciting starter.
5. Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a light counterpoint to hearty lasagna.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese make for an enticing appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Meat Lovers Lasagna, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not using enough sauce: A dry lasagna can ruin the dish. Ensure you have enough sauce to keep the layers moist and flavorful.
• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking lasagna noodles too long can make them mushy. Aim for al dente; they will cook more in the oven.
• Skipping the resting time: Letting your lasagna rest before serving is crucial. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
• Neglecting seasoning: Underseasoned meat can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your meat mixture and adjust seasonings before assembling.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Grate your cheese fresh for the best texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Meat Lovers Lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
• Store it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Freezing Meat Lovers Lasagna

• You can freeze Meat Lovers Lasagna for up to 2-3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap.

Reheating Meat Lovers Lasagna

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 2-3 minutes, checking regularly until hot.
• Stovetop: In a pan over low heat, add a splash of water, cover, and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Meat Lovers Lasagna so special?

This Meat Lovers Lasagna is packed with flavorful meats, rich cheeses, and a delicious homemade sauce that elevates this classic dish.

Can I customize my Meat Lovers Lasagna?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out meats or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when my Meat Lovers Lasagna is done?

The lasagna is ready when it’s bubbling around the edges and the cheese is golden brown on top.

Can I prepare Meat Lovers Lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it.

Conclusion

This Meat Lovers Lasagna is not only hearty but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various meats or veggies according to your taste preferences. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings—give it a try today!

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