Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this classic Lasagna al Forno recipe. Layers of tender lasagna noodles, flavorful meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and aromatic herbs come together in a satisfying baked dish that is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Filling:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Additional Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the meat sauce: In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil. Add ground beef and pork, cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, red wine, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Make the cheese filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, and Parmesan until smooth.
- Assemble the lasagna: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer meat sauce, noodles, cheese mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with meat sauce and mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rest and serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- You can prepare the lasagna ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if preferred.
- Adjust for no-boil noodles by adding more liquid and adjusting baking time.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
