lasagna pasta recipe

This easy homemade lasagna pasta recipe combines classic pasta recipes with the perfect balance of ingredients for a dish that’s sure to satisfy.

Lasagna is a timeless favorite, beloved for its rich layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese. Whether you’re preparing a comforting dinner for family or impressing guests, mastering a great lasagna pasta recipe can elevate your culinary skills.

Ingredients For Pasta And Lasagna Recipes

For the Meat Sauce:

• Ground beef or sausage: The base of your lasagna, providing depth of flavor and heartiness.
• Onion: Finely chopped to add sweetness and aroma.
• Garlic: Minced for a robust flavor.
• Canned tomato sauce: Adds a smooth, tangy base.
• Canned crushed tomatoes: For a thicker, richer sauce.
• Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to enhance the sauce’s complexity.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning.

For the Cheese Mixture:

• Ricotta cheese: Provides a creamy texture and mild flavor.
• Egg: Binds the cheese mixture together and helps it set.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
• Fresh parsley or dried basil: For a touch of freshness and additional flavor.

For Assembly:

• Lasagna noodles: You can use either no-boil or pre-cooked pasta sheets for this pasta lasagna recipe.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a gooey, cheesy layer.

Instructions For Lasagna Pasta Recipe:

Prepare the Meat Sauce:

1. Start by preparing the meat sauce, which is a crucial component of any pasta and lasagna recipes. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. This step ensures the meat is well-cooked and flavorful.
2. Drain any excess fat to keep your lasagna from becoming greasy. Add finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. This process brings out the natural sweetness of the onion, adding a lovely depth to your sauce. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about a minute, just until fragrant.
4. Next, introduce canned tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste into the skillet. These ingredients create a rich tomato base for the sauce.
5. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 20 minutes. This simmering time lets the flavors meld together and develop a deep, robust taste.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

1. While the meat sauce simmers, prepare the cheese mixture, which will add a creamy and flavorful layer to your lasagna pasta.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with an egg. The egg helps bind the cheese mixture and ensures it sets properly when baked.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese for a sharp, salty bite and add fresh parsley or dried basil for a touch of herbal freshness. Mix until well combined.
4. This cheese mixture will complement the savory meat sauce and create a perfect balance in your pasta lasagne recipe.

Assemble the Lasagna:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking. Begin assembling your lasagna by spreading a layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
2. This first layer acts as a base and prevents the pasta from sticking. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. If you’re using no-boil noodles, they will soften and cook as the lasagna bakes.
3. For pre-cooked noodles, layer them directly from the pot. Spread a generous layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles. Follow this with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. The mozzarella will melt and bubble during baking, creating a delicious, gooey texture. Repeat the layers of sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella until all ingredients are used.
5. Finish with a final layer of shredded mozzarella on top. This will create a beautiful, cheesy crust.

Bake the Lasagna:

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. This step helps the lasagna cook evenly and prevents the top from browning too quickly.
2. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes. This uncovered baking time allows the top layer of cheese to become bubbly and golden brown.
3. Once baked, let the lasagna cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This cooling period helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut clean slices.

Conclusion

This easy homemade pasta recipes lasagna offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please. By following this pasta lasagna recipe, you create a dish that’s rich, hearty, and full of comforting flavors.

Whether you’re new to making lasagna or a seasoned cook, this pasta and lasagna recipes will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Enjoy your homemade pasta lasagna, and remember, the best part is sharing it with friends and family!