The Ultimate Comfort Food: Cheesy Beef Lasagna 🍝❤️
Lasagna holds a special place in the hearts of many, and for good reason. Those perfectly stacked layers of pasta, hearty meat sauce, and gooey cheese are like a warm hug on a plate. The lasagna in the picture you shared is no exception—it’s a mouthwatering blend of seasoned beef, vibrant veggies, and a creamy, cheesy topping that’s baked to golden perfection. Let’s dive into how to recreate this comforting dish at home and some tips to make it unforgettable!
A Brief History of Lasagna: From Italy with Love 🇮🇹
Lasagna has been gracing tables since the Middle Ages, with roots tracing back to ancient Greece. However, the beloved layered version we know today is an Italian classic, hailing from the region of Emilia-Romagna. Traditionally made with layers of ragù (meat sauce), béchamel, and Parmesan, lasagna has since evolved into countless variations, each with its own charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒
To recreate this cheesy beef lasagna, gather these ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Layers:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Assembly:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until soft. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, bell peppers, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes to blend flavors.
2. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well and set aside.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a layer of meat sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture, followed by mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
- Repeat layers, ending with meat sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella on top.
4. Bake to Perfection:
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.