Homemade lasagna with ricotta cheese is a classic dish that brings together layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce to create a mouthwatering, comforting meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and homemade touch.
Lasagna is a beloved dish in many cultures, and its origins can be traced back to Italy. The word “lasagna” itself comes from the Italian word “lasagna,” which means “big flat pan.” This dish has been enjoyed for centuries, and its versatility allows for countless variations. One of the most popular versions is homemade lasagna with ricotta cheese, which adds a creamy and savory element to the layers of pasta, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
To start your homemade lasagna with ricotta cheese, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 pound lasagna noodles
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 eggs, beaten
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and ground pork over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and beaten eggs until well combined.
Now, it’s time to assemble the lasagna. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, then spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat this process, alternating between layers of noodles, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese until you have used all the ingredients, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the lasagna. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into pieces and enjoy this delicious homemade lasagna with ricotta cheese. It’s perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or any occasion where you want to impress with your culinary skills. Buon appetito!
