Nothing quite beats the warm, comforting aroma of a freshly baked lasagna filling your home. Layers of rich tomato sauce, savory cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta come together to create a dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy meal for your family, this classic baked lasagna recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious and hearty dish.
**Baked Lasagna**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound of ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
– 1 cup of water
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 15 ounces of ricotta cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a separate pot, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and egg. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
6. To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Once baked, let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Enjoy this delicious baked lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for gatherings with loved ones or for a cozy night in. The leftovers also taste amazing the next day, making it a convenient option for meal prep or busy weeknights. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a slice of homemade comfort.
