Worlds Best Lasagna

Worlds Best Lasagna is a comforting Italian classic featuring layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and bubbling cheese—perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

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The process begins with browning a savory mix of ground beef and Italian sausage with minced garlic in olive oil. Once the meat is browned and drained, it is simmered with marinara sauce, fresh basil, salt, and pepper to blend the flavors into a rich, aromatic sauce.

Ingredients

• Pasta & Cheese:
• 12 sheets lasagna noodles, uncooked
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Meat Sauce:
• 1 lb ground beef (lean recommended)
• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casing removed)
• 4 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

Cook complete meals by sautéing, simmering sauces, boiling pasta, and steaming vegetables with reliable everyday cookware.

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3

Add ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned (8–10 minutes). Drain excess fat.

Step 4

Stir in marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 5

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese and egg. Mix until smooth.

Step 6

To assemble, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Step 7

Add 4 sheets of uncooked lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping.

Step 8

Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, top with a third of the mozzarella, then more meat sauce.

Step 9

Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, meat sauce.

Step 10

Finish with the last layer of noodles, remaining meat sauce, then top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 11

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Step 12

Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 13

Let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For added depth, layer in sautéed spinach or mushrooms with the ricotta cheese mixture during assembly.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Use part-skim cheeses to reduce fat, or opt for whole milk varieties for an extra rich and indulgent lasagna.

Serviervorschläge

This dish pairs beautifully with a robust Italian red wine such as Chianti. You can also serve it with a fresh green salad to balance the rich, savory flavors.

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With 500 calories and 40g of carbohydrates per serving, this Worlds Best Lasagna is a satisfying meal that brings warmth to any table. Enjoy this Italian classic as a delicious centerpiece for your next dinner.

Serve homemade meals comfortably with sturdy utensils and steak knives for everyday dining and special dinners.

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Recipe FAQ

→ What kind of noodles should I use for this dish?

This preparation calls for 12 sheets of uncooked lasagna noodles. Many brands offer 'oven-ready' or no-boil noodles which simplify the process further, but traditional uncooked noodles also work beautifully.

→ Can I prepare the meat sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The meat sauce can be prepared a day or two ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld even further, often resulting in a richer taste for your assembled dish.

→ What are the key cheeses for this layered bake?

The core cheeses in this classic are creamy ricotta, shredded mozzarella for its melt and stretch, and grated Parmesan for a salty, nutty finish. You can adjust the types of Parmesan (e.g., Pecorino Romano) for different flavor profiles.

→ Are there any tips for varying the ingredients or adding extra depth?

For added depth, consider layering in sautéed spinach or mushrooms with the ricotta mixture. You can also experiment with different types of Italian sausage (sweet or spicy) or even a mix of ground meats. Using fresh basil throughout enhances the aromatic qualities.

→ How long should this dish rest before serving?

It's crucial to let the assembled bake rest for at least 15 minutes after coming out of the oven. This allows the layers to set, preventing it from collapsing when sliced, and ensures a more enjoyable serving experience.

→ Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?

Yes, leftovers reheat very well and can be frozen for up to 2 months. Ensure it's stored in an airtight container or properly wrapped to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn. Thaw before reheating for best results.