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Classic Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese

Classic Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese for Cozy Nights

This Classic Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese is an easy crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Noodles
  • 12 oz Lasagna Noodles Choose regular or whole wheat.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Or substitute with ground turkey.
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce Homemade or premium store-bought.
  • 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes Crushed tomatoes can be a smoother alternative.
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 1 cup Ricotta Cheese Or cottage cheese as a lower-fat substitute.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Use low-moisture mozzarella.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated is preferred.
  • 1 whole Egg May omit for a lighter lasagna.
For Flavoring
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning Can replace with basil or oregano.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can swap for vegetable oil.
  • Salt and Pepper To taste; use freshly ground black pepper.
  • Fresh Basil or Parsley Optional, for garnish.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Colander
  • medium mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil, add ground beef, and brown for 5-7 minutes. Drain fat and stir in marinara and diced tomatoes, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat until ingredients are used, finishing with noodles and sauce on top.
  5. Cover with foil, bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 20 minutes until cheese is golden.
  6. Let lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 22gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Perfect noodles should be al dente. Always let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

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