When the craving for comfort food hits, few dishes can satisfy like a well-made lasagna. This ultimate cheese lasagna recipe is not only a delicious feast of flavors but also incredibly simple to prepare. Imagine layers of tender lasagna noodles, each perfectly soaked in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce, then smothered with a decadent blend of cheeses that melt into a harmonious symphony of comfort. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or just indulging in some well-deserved self-care, this lasagna will be your go-to dish.
Ingredients
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the careful selection of ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups of ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 4 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 2 jars (each 24 ounces) of your favorite pasta sauce
- 1/4 cup of water
Preparation
Creating this lasagna involves several steps, each contributing to the final mouthwatering outcome:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the lasagna will cook evenly and the cheese will melt and brown beautifully.
2. Cook the Noodles
Cook 9 lasagna noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain them and lay them out flat on parchment paper to cool and prevent sticking.
🔍 Note: Avoid rinsing the noodles with cold water as this can make them too slippery for assembling the lasagna.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, mix together:
- 2 cups of ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1⁄2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning
- 1⁄4 teaspoon of salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon of black pepper
4. Assemble the Lasagna
Here’s where the magic happens:
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Place 3 noodles over the sauce.
- Spread 1⁄3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Sprinkle 1⁄3 of the mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta.
- If using meat, crumble some over the cheese.
- Pour 1⁄3 of the remaining sauce over this layer.
- Repeat these steps for two more layers. Ensure to reserve some sauce and mozzarella for the top.
- Cover the final layer with the rest of the sauce, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, and pour 1⁄4 cup of water around the edges of the dish.
5. Bake the Lasagna
Cover the dish with foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil, and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Let It Rest
Allow the lasagna to sit for about 15-20 minutes after baking. This resting time lets the layers set, making it easier to slice without falling apart.
This ultimate cheese lasagna recipe brings together the essence of traditional Italian cooking with the simplicity and joy of home cooking. Every bite is a celebration of cheese, pasta, and sauce, making it the perfect dish for any occasion where you want to impress without stress.
Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
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Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance, cover it, and keep it refrigerated. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
What cheeses can I use for lasagna?
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While ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are traditional, you can experiment with cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even creamy mascarpone for a luxurious twist.
Can I freeze lasagna?
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Yes, lasagna freezes beautifully. After assembling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. It can be baked from frozen; just cover with foil and bake at a lower temperature for an extended period.
