Description
This cozy lasagna, filled with rich flavors and simple techniques, is perfect for fall evenings and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
- 1 lb ground beef (use halal ground beef)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes (one large can)
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water or low-sodium broth
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped (optional for fall greens)
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, 4–5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon; cook until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until slightly reduced. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, a pinch of salt, and chopped spinach. Mix until smooth.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of sauce (about 1 cup) in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Place 3–4 noodles over the sauce (trim to fit if needed).
- Dollop and spread half the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella and add another cup of sauce.
- Repeat layers: noodles, remaining ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, sauce.
- Top with final layer of noodles, remaining sauce, and the last cup of mozzarella.
- Cover with foil (spray underside with cooking spray so cheese doesn’t stick) and bake 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna rest 10–15 minutes before cutting; this helps it set for neat slices. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
Notes
Let the lasagna rest before cutting for neat slices. Use a mix of cheeses for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian