THE Best Lasagna EVER

THE Best Lasagna EVER is a dish that stands out for its rich layers and comforting flavors. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or just a cozy night in, this lasagna is sure to impress everyone at your table. With its delicious combination of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and melted cheese on top, it’s no wonder this recipe will become your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices and seasoned meats creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates every bite.
• Creamy Texture: Layers of ricotta and mozzarella provide a delightful creaminess that complements the hearty sauce perfectly.
• Feeding a Crowd: With generous servings, this recipe is great for family dinners or potlucks.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap proteins to suit your taste!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather essential kitchen tools that will make your lasagna-making experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large dutch oven: Ideal for making sauces as it holds heat well and allows for even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Baking dish: The right size ensures even layering of ingredients for optimal cooking.

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 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 4 cups (2 lb) 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 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 peppers flakes (optional)

How to Make THE Best Lasagna EVER

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a large dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Toss with a wooden spoon until onions are softened and slightly browned, about 5-6 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

Add the chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage and ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Drain any excess juices from the pot. Return to heat; pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Add a bit of water to each jar, shake them up, then pour into the pot. Mix in tomato paste, brown sugar, salt, pepper, dried basil, Italian seasoning, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together well.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

Lower the heat and let it simmer for at least 1 ½ to 2 hours. This allows flavors to meld and sauce to thicken. Stir occasionally while skimming off any fat on top.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Once your sauce is ready, turn off heat and preheat your oven to 375°F.

Step 6: Mix Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat together egg and egg yolk. Add ricotta, mozzarella pieces, Parmesan cheese; stir until combined. Season with salt, pepper, cayenne (if using), and parsley.

Step 7: Boil Noodles

Fill a large pot with water; add salt and olive oil. Bring water to boil before adding uncooked lasagna noodles according to package directions.

Step 8: Assemble Lasagna

After cooking noodles, drain them and rinse under cold water briefly. In your baking dish:
– Spread 1/4 of meat sauce on bottom.
– Layer with 1/3 of noodles followed by ½ of cheese filling.
– Repeat once more with another layer of meat sauce, noodles, remaining cheese filling followed by final meat sauce layer on top.
– Finish by topping with remaining mozzarella pieces and shredded Parmesan.

Step 9: Cover & Bake

Loosely cover baking dish with aluminum foil without touching cheese layer. Place on larger baking sheet just in case there’s any overflow during baking.

Step 10: Final Bake

Bake covered for 30 minutes. Remove foil; bake an additional 30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling on top.

Step 11: Cool & Serve

Once done baking, remove from oven let sit for about 20 minutes before slicing into servings. Enjoy!

How to Serve THE Best Lasagna EVER

Serving THE Best Lasagna EVER is all about presentation and complementing flavors. This dish is not only a feast for the palate but also for the eyes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your lasagna experience.

Classic Side Salad

• A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of lasagna.

Garlic Bread

• Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce left on your plate. It’s an easy and popular side that guests will love.

Roasted Vegetables

• Serve a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots. Their caramelized flavors complement the savory layers of lasagna beautifully.

Parmesan Crisps

• These crunchy snacks made from baked cheese add a delightful texture contrast to the creamy lasagna. They’re simple to make and a great finger food option.

Wine Pairing (Non-Alcoholic)

• Consider serving sparkling grape juice or a non-alcoholic red wine alternative. These beverages can enhance the meal without overpowering its flavors.

Fresh Basil Garnish

• Top each serving with freshly chopped basil for an aromatic touch that brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.

How to Perfect THE Best Lasagna EVER

To ensure you’re making THE Best Lasagna EVER, keep these tips in mind for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality cheeses and fresh herbs can make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for whole milk ricotta and freshly grated cheese whenever possible.
• Layer Thoughtfully: Building your lasagna with care ensures even distribution of flavors throughout. Alternate between meat sauce, noodles, and cheese filling for balanced bites.
• Let it Rest: Allowing your lasagna to rest for at least 20 minutes after baking helps it set, making slicing easier and allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust herbs and spices based on personal preference. Adding fresh oregano or thyme can give your sauce an extra depth.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Taking the time to simmer your sauce allows flavors to develop fully. The longer you let it cook, the better it gets!
• Cover with Foil: When baking, loosely cover with foil initially to prevent burning while ensuring that it cooks through evenly before uncovering for browning.

Best Side Dishes for THE Best Lasagna EVER

Complementing THE Best Lasagna EVER with tasty side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic salad featuring romaine lettuce, croutons, parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing adds crispness that pairs well with cheesy lasagna.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast without overpowering the lasagna’s rich flavors.
3. Caprese Skewers: These skewers of fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite before digging into your main course.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of marinated olives, artichokes, roasted red peppers, and cheeses makes for an exciting appetizer that sets the stage for your lasagna feast.
5. Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic and parmesan create a comforting side dish that complements any Italian meal wonderfully.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with cheese or bread crumbs provide an elegant touch as an appetizer or side dish before enjoying your hearty lasagna.
7. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy delights made from grated zucchini are flavorful and easy to prepare, adding another layer of taste on your dinner table.
8. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic offers a light yet flavorful start to balance your meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making THE Best Lasagna EVER, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect your final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring the sauce simmer time: Skipping the simmering step may result in a watery sauce. Take the time to let it reduce and develop flavor.
• Overcooking the noodles: If you cook your lasagna noodles too long, they can become mushy. Follow package instructions carefully and consider cooking them al dente.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into lasagna immediately after baking can make it fall apart. Allow it to set for about 20 minutes before slicing for perfect layers.
• Under-seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can leave your lasagna bland. Always sample your sauce and cheese mixture, adjusting as needed.
• Skipping the foil cover: Not covering your lasagna with foil during the first part of baking can lead to burnt cheese. Loosely cover it to prevent this while allowing it to bubble nicely.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Lasts up to 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing THE Best Lasagna EVER

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating THE Best Lasagna EVER

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 30-40 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, occasionally covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes THE Best Lasagna EVER?

The combination of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and gooey mozzarella creates an unforgettable dish that everyone loves.

Can I customize THE Best Lasagna EVER?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini or swap meats according to your preferences.

How do I store leftovers of THE Best Lasagna EVER?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

What sides pair well with THE Best Lasagna EVER?

A fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish beautifully.

Conclusion

THE Best Lasagna EVER is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience filled with layers of flavor. This recipe is versatile and allows you to customize it based on what you have at home or your favorite ingredients. Give it a try and see how it quickly becomes a staple in your kitchen!