Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with the World’s Best Lasagna recipe. Packed with rich layers of meat sauce, cheese, and pasta—perfect for any gathering!
Introduction:
Lasagna is the quintessential comfort food that has stood the test of time, and for good reason. This recipe for World’s Best Lasagna blends layers of hearty meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella cheese between tender lasagna noodles. The combination of rich flavors, meaty textures, and just the right amount of seasoning creates an irresistible dish perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a special treat for yourself. Though it requires a bit of preparation, the reward is worth every step—get ready for one of the most satisfying meals ever. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh salad, and you’ll have the ultimate Italian feast!
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (6 oz each) tomato paste
- 2 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp salt
Other Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, sausage, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Simmer the Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water to the meat mixture. Stir in sugar, basil, oregano, pepper, and salt. Simmer uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
- Boil the Noodles: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add lasagna noodles and cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- Mix the Ricotta: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, and salt. Stir until well blended.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Layer the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of meat sauce on the bottom. Place 3 cooked lasagna noodles on top. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle with 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese and 1/3 of the Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a final layer of sauce and cheese.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray the foil with cooking spray first). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 5: Serve
- Let it Rest: Allow the lasagna to sit for 15 minutes before cutting into it to let the layers set.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with extra parsley or Parmesan cheese for added flavor, and serve hot.
How to Prepare:
- Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the lasagna a day in advance. Simply assemble, cover with foil, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day as directed.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes (includes sauce simmering)
- Total Time: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Servings:
- Yields: 12 servings
FAQs:
1. Can I substitute ricotta cheese?
- Yes, cottage cheese is a common substitute for ricotta in lasagna if you’re looking for a lighter option.
2. Can I freeze the lasagna?
- Absolutely! Lasagna freezes well. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour.
3. What can I serve with lasagna?
- Lasagna pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
4. How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?
- Drain the meat and use less water if your sauce seems too thin. Make sure to let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set properly.
5. Can I make this lasagna vegetarian?
- Yes! Simply omit the meat and add a layer of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
Conclusion:
This World’s Best Lasagna recipe is a true celebration of Italian cuisine. With its rich layers of meat sauce, perfectly cooked noodles, and creamy cheeses, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering or a weeknight family dinner, lasagna is the kind of recipe that brings warmth and joy to the table. While it may take some time to prepare, the end result is nothing short of spectacular. This timeless classic will quickly become a favorite in your home—enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
