Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef and pork over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add water if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside.
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and lay them flat on a clean towel to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
- Lay 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by 1/4 of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers (noodles, ricotta, meat sauce, cheese) until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for the perfect Italian-inspired meal.
Enjoy your classic baked lasagna! 🥂