Classic Italian lasagna is a timeless dish loved by many for its comforting layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy béchamel, and gooey cheese. In this recipe, we’re adding a twist by incorporating a secret ingredient that takes this lasagna to a whole new level of deliciousness. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a hearty meal, this lasagna recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients for Classic Italian Lasagna with a Twist:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Secret Ingredient Layer:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach, cooked and squeezed dry
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
How to Make Classic Italian Lasagna with a Twist:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, and sugar. Simmer, uncovered, for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, basil, Parmesan cheese, and egg.
- To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange 4 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with the meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the lasagna is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
- Let the lasagna stand for 10 minutes before serving. Cut into squares and serve hot.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Ground Beef: Ground beef is a classic ingredient in lasagna, providing a rich and savory flavor. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce is the base for the meat sauce in lasagna, providing a tangy and sweet flavor. Use crushed tomatoes and tomato paste for a thick and rich sauce.
- Cheeses: Mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese are essential for adding creaminess and flavor to the lasagna. Feel free to add other cheeses like ricotta or provolone for additional richness.
This Classic Italian Lasagna with a Twist is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the delicious flavors and layers of this classic Italian dish with a twist!
