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Homemade Lasagna with Ricotta

A comforting and delicious homemade lasagna layered with ricotta, ground beef, and marinara sauce, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce
  • 12 oz Lasagna noodles Dried noodles, whole wheat for a healthier option.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing, can substitute with canola oil.
  • 1 lb Ground beef Can be swapped for ground turkey or mushrooms.
  • 1 cup Chopped onion Shallots can be used for milder taste.
  • 2 cloves Minced garlic Fresh is best, garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
  • 24 oz Marinara sauce Store-bought or homemade.
Cheese Mixture
  • 15 oz Ricotta cheese Cottage cheese can be used for a lighter option.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder; omit for vegan version.
  • 1 tbsp Dried oregano Fresh herbs can enhance flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential seasoning.
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper Essential seasoning.
  • 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese Consider dairy-free alternatives if needed.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast serves as a no-dairy substitute.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic; cook until the beef is browned.
  4. Stir in marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Assembly
  1. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. Spread a layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Layer 3 noodles, half the ricotta mixture, a third of the mozzarella, and another layer of meat sauce. Repeat these layers, finishing with noodles and the remaining meat sauce.
  3. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Baking
  1. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
  2. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Avoid overcooking noodles to prevent a mushy lasagna. Don't skip the resting period to let flavors meld.