THE Best Lasagna EVER

THE Best Lasagna EVER is a delightful dish that will quickly become your favorite for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or cozy dinners. This lasagna boasts layers of rich and meaty sauce, a creamy ricotta filling, and a gooey cheesy topping that melts in your mouth. It’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a comforting meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unmatched Flavor – The combination of savory meats, fresh herbs, and cheeses creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this lasagna fits right in.
• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps, you’ll find this recipe simple to follow, even for beginners.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to serve, saving you time on busy days.
• Feeds a Crowd – This recipe yields enough servings to delight a group, making it ideal for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious lasagna recipe, gather your kitchen essentials. Having the right tools will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large dutch oven – Ideal for cooking the meat sauce evenly without burning.
• Mixing bowls – Perfect for combining ingredients easily and efficiently.
• Baking dish – Ensures even cooking and easy serving with its ample size.

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 Mixture

• 8 oz soft mozzarella cheese, torn into pieces
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb. lasagna noodles, uncooked
• 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 tablespoons 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
• (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1–2 teaspoons salt, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• (optional) 1/4–1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make THE Best Lasagna EVER

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Base

In a large dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot:
* Add the diced onion and minced garlic.
* Cook until onions are softened and slightly browned, about 5–6 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients for Sauce

Once meat is browned:
* Drain any excess juices in the pot.
* Return to heat; pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.
* Add a little water to the jars of sauce, shake them up, then pour into the pot.

Step 4: Season Your Sauce

Add tomato paste, brown sugar, salt, pepper, dried basil, Italian seasoning, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes:
* Stir well to combine everything.
* Turn heat low and simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours.

Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Cheese Mixture

After simmering:
* Turn off heat and preheat your oven to 375°F.
In a large mixing bowl:
* Beat together the egg and egg yolk.
* Add ricotta cheese, mozzarella pieces, parmesan; mix until combined.
* Stir in salt, pepper, cayenne (if using), and chopped parsley.

Step 6: Boil Noodles

Fill a large pot with water:
* Add ½ teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil; bring it to a boil.
Once boiling:
* Add lasagna noodles; cook according to package directions.

Step 7: Assemble Your Lasagna

Drain cooked noodles; rinse them in cold water. In your baking dish:
* Spread ¼ of the meat sauce on bottom.
* Layer with ⅓ of noodles followed by half of cheese mixture.
Repeat layers: meat sauce, noodles, remaining cheese mixture; finish with last layer of meat sauce on top.
Top with mozzarella pieces and shredded parmesan.

Step 8: Bake It!

Loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil:
* Place it on a larger baking sheet in case anything leaks out.
Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes:
* Remove foil; bake an additional 30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Remove from oven; let set for about 20 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your homemade THE Best Lasagna EVER!

How to Serve THE Best Lasagna EVER

Serving THE Best Lasagna EVER is all about enhancing the flavors and creating an inviting meal experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your lasagna dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce mixed with creamy dressing, croutons, and shaved parmesan adds crunch and richness.

Complement with Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Spread butter and minced garlic on toasted baguette slices for a crispy side that pairs perfectly.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Top your garlic bread with mozzarella and bake until golden for an extra cheesy treat.

Serve with Steamed Vegetables

• Seasonal Veggies: Steam broccoli, carrots, or green beans lightly seasoned with olive oil and salt for a healthy addition.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out natural sweetness in vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, making them a flavorful side.

How to Perfect THE Best Lasagna EVER

Perfecting THE Best Lasagna EVER involves attention to detail and the right techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your lasagna turns out amazing every time.

• Bold Layering: Make sure to layer your ingredients evenly. This helps in achieving the perfect bite every time.
• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh cheeses and high-quality ground meats for the best flavor in your sauce.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the lasagna to set after baking. This helps it hold its shape when sliced.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your meat sauce during cooking. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your palate for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for THE Best Lasagna EVER

When enjoying THE Best Lasagna EVER, side dishes can enhance the meal wonderfully. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Lightly brushed with garlic butter; they are soft and perfect for dipping into sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction create a vibrant starter.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and tender inside; toss them in olive oil and sea salt before roasting.
4. Italian Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheese, artichokes, and roasted peppers offers a savory start.
5. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy dip served warm with crunchy chips or bread is always a hit at gatherings.
6. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): A low-carb option that adds freshness; sauté lightly with olive oil for flavor without heaviness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making lasagna can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin the dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking the lasagna noodles too long makes them mushy. Always follow package instructions and aim for al dente.
• Not layering correctly: Skipping layers or not following the order can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the structured layering of sauce, noodles, and cheese.
• Using too much sauce: An excess of sauce can make your lasagna soggy. Use just enough to cover each layer without drowning it.
• Skipping the resting period: Cutting into hot lasagna will make it fall apart. Allow it to sit for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
• Neglecting seasoning: A lack of seasoning can make your lasagna bland. Taste your meat sauce and cheese mixture, adjusting spices as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Item: Store in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap.
• Item: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing THE Best Lasagna EVER

• Item: Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Item: Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating THE Best Lasagna EVER

• Item: Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Item: Microwave – Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Item: Stovetop – In a skillet, add a splash of water and cover. Heat on low until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes THE Best Lasagna EVER?

This lasagna features layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and gooey mozzarella, creating an unforgettable flavor experience.

Can I customize THE Best Lasagna EVER?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, change up the meats, or even use different cheeses to suit your taste.

How do I know when THE Best Lasagna EVER is done baking?

Look for a golden-brown top and bubbling edges. It should be firm yet slightly jiggly when you gently shake it.

Can I prepare THE Best Lasagna EVER ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

Is THE Best Lasagna EVER suitable for freezing?

Definitely! Just ensure it’s well-wrapped before freezing to maintain freshness and flavor.

Conclusion

THE Best Lasagna EVER is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its layers of savory meat sauce and creamy cheese filling, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for an even more personal touch!

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