THE Best Lasagna EVER

THE Best Lasagna EVER is an absolute delight, perfect for any occasion. With layers of rich, meaty sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and a bubbly cheese topping, this dish will quickly become your family’s favorite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just craving comfort food, this lasagna delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Get ready to impress your guests with this mouthwatering recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Layers: Each bite offers a harmonious blend of savory meats, creamy cheeses, and aromatic herbs.
• Easy to Prepare: Despite its gourmet taste, this lasagna is straightforward to make, even for beginner cooks.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions, it suits various dining needs.
• Make Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate or freeze for later enjoyment without losing quality.
• Feeds a Crowd: Ideal for family gatherings or potlucks, this recipe serves up to 12 people.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing THE Best Lasagna EVER requires some essential kitchen tools to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Pot for boiling noodles

Why These Tools Matter

• Large dutch oven: Perfect for simmering sauces evenly while allowing flavors to develop beautifully.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Baking dish: A deep baking dish holds all the layers snugly while baking for optimal texture.

Ingredients

This Lasagna is the best I’ve ever had! Layers of a thick and meaty sauce, creamy ricotta filling and a cheesy topping. I guarantee this will be your new favourite go-to recipe for the holidays!

For the Cheese Filling

• 8 oz soft mozzarella cheese, torn into pieces
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 Ib. lasagna noodles, uncooked
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 4 cups (2 Ib.) Whole milk ricotta cheese
• 8 oz. soft mozzarella cheese, torn into pieces (I used Bocconcini)
• 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1/8-1/4 teaspoon cayenne(optional)
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Meat Sauce

• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large white onion, diced
• 5 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 pound chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage, removed from their casings (I used Hot chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage)
• 1 and 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 3 cups (28 ounce) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups (16 ounce) tomato sauce
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1-2 teaspoons salt, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes(optional)

How to Make THE Best Lasagna EVER

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot:
1. Add the diced onion and minced garlic.
2. Cook until onions are softened and slightly browned, about 5-6 minutes. Be cautious as garlic can burn easily.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

Once the onions are cooked:
1. Add the chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage and ground beef.
2. Cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.

Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients

After browning the meat:
1. Drain any excess juices from the pot.
2. Return to heat and pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.
3. Rinse jars with a little water, shake them up, and add that liquid to the pot as well.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Add in:
– Tomato paste,
– Brown sugar,
– Salt,
– Pepper,
– Dried basil,
– Italian seasoning,
– Fennel seeds,
– Red pepper flakes (if using).
Stir everything together well. Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer for at least 1 and ½ hours to enhance flavors.

Step 5: Prepare Cheese Mixture

While sauce simmers:
In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat the egg and egg yolk.
2. Mix in ricotta cheese, mozzarella pieces, Parmesan cheese until combined.
3. Season with salt, pepper, cayenne (if using), and chopped parsley.

Step 6: Boil Lasagna Noodles

Fill a large pot with water:
– Add ½ teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
– Bring it to a boil before adding lasagna noodles according to package directions.

Step 7: Layer Your Lasagna

After cooking noodles:
– Spread ¼ of meat sauce into the bottom of your baking dish.
– Layer with ⅓ of noodles followed by half of the cheese mixture.
Repeat layering with remaining meat sauce, noodles, cheese filling, then top with remaining meat sauce.

Step 8: Bake

Loosely cover with foil:
– Bake in preheated oven at 375°F for 30 minutes.
– Remove foil; bake an additional 30 minutes until golden on top.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Remove from oven and allow it to set for about 20 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your delicious lasagna!

How to Serve THE Best Lasagna EVER

Serving lasagna can be just as exciting as making it. The way you present this dish can enhance the dining experience, making it memorable for you and your guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is a classic side that complements lasagna perfectly. The buttery, garlicky flavor enhances the rich taste of the dish.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the hearty lasagna, adding freshness to your plate.

Offer Extra Cheese

• Serve additional Parmesan or mozzarella on the side for those who love their lasagna extra cheesy!

Include Marinara Sauce

• A small bowl of marinara sauce can be served alongside for dipping or drizzling over servings for an extra burst of flavor.

Wine Pairing (Non-Alcoholic)

• Offer a sparkling grape or pomegranate juice to mimic wine without the alcohol; it adds a festive touch to your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over each serving before presenting. This adds color and freshness that enhances both appearance and taste.

How to Perfect THE Best Lasagna EVER

Perfecting your lasagna takes a little practice, but these tips will help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh, high-quality cheeses and meats for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Layer Wisely: Ensure even layers of sauce, noodles, and cheese. This not only looks good but helps in achieving uniform cooking throughout.
• Let It Rest: Allow the lasagna to sit after baking before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to taste your meat sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. Personalize it to suit your taste!
• Cover Properly: When baking, cover loosely with foil to prevent sticking while allowing steam to escape for a perfect top layer.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Adding layers of sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini can boost nutrition and add texture.

Best Side Dishes for THE Best Lasagna EVER

Lasagna is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can round out your meal. Here are some options that will complement THE Best Lasagna EVER beautifully.

1. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad with crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons offers a satisfying contrast to the rich lasagna.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli provides a nutritious side that balances out the heaviness of the lasagna.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing Italian appetizer.
4. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds vibrant colors and flavors that enhance your dining experience.
5. Antipasto Platter – An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers offers a variety of tastes that pair well with lasagna.
6. Garlic Knots – Soft garlic knots brushed with herb-infused olive oil are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
7. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide an alternative comfort food option that kids will love.
8. Minestrone Soup – A warm bowl of minestrone soup can be an excellent starter before diving into the main event!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making lasagna can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin your dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid for THE Best Lasagna EVER:

• Not Cooking Your Noodles Properly: Undercooking or overcooking the noodles can affect the texture of your lasagna. Follow the package instructions carefully and aim for al dente.
• Skipping the Simmering Time: Rushing through the sauce preparation can lead to a bland flavor. Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours to enhance the taste.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese can impact the overall flavor and creaminess of your lasagna. Invest in good-quality ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan for a richer taste.
• Layering Incorrectly: Not following a proper layering technique can result in uneven distribution of flavors. Ensure you alternate layers of meat sauce, noodles, and cheese filling.
• Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into your lasagna right after baking can cause it to fall apart. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes before slicing to maintain its shape.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing THE Best Lasagna EVER

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
• This lasagna can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating THE Best Lasagna EVER

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and cover with foil; heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate; heat on high for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water; cover and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes THE Best Lasagna EVER?

The combination of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and high-quality cheeses creates an unforgettable flavor profile that everyone loves.

Can I make THE Best Lasagna EVER ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

How do I customize THE Best Lasagna EVER?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Is it possible to make this lasagna vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the meat with your favorite vegetables or lentils for a delicious vegetarian option.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Mixing different cheeses like gouda or cheddar can add unique flavors while still keeping it cheesy and delicious.

Conclusion

This recipe for THE Best Lasagna EVER is not just about great taste; it’s also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving family dinners or holiday gatherings, this lasagna will impress everyone at the table. Plus, you can customize it based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Give it a try today!

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