Description
This hearty, flavorful lasagna recipe is inspired by the classic dish served at Maggiano’s, known for its layers of rich, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese filling, and gooey melted mozzarella. The combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, and aromatic spices creates a deep, satisfying flavor that simmers to perfection. Paired with the creamy, herb-infused ricotta and topped with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, this lasagna is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a family meal, this dish will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a green salad for a complete Italian feast!
Ingredients
For the meat sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the cheese filling:
- 16 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 16 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large pot, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Add the sugar, basil, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Simmer, covered, for about 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
2️⃣ Prepare the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
3️⃣ Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
4️⃣ Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread 1 cup of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish. Arrange 3 lasagna noodles lengthwise over the meat sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles. Top with one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layers two more times, starting with the meat sauce and ending with a final layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
5️⃣ Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil. To prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
6️⃣ Cool and Serve:
Let the lasagna cool for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps it set for cleaner slices and richer flavors.
Notes
- The longer you let the meat sauce simmer, the richer and deeper the flavor will become, so don’t rush this step.
- If you prefer a cheesier lasagna, you can add more mozzarella between the layers.
- For a slightly spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a bit more fennel seed.
- You can prepare the lasagna in advance, refrigerate it overnight, and bake it the next day for convenience.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours (including simmering time)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8