Simple Lasagne Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Weeknight Meal
Lasagne, a classic Italian comfort food, is often perceived as a complicated dish. However, this simple lasagne recipe proves that it can be both delicious and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner. No fancy ingredients or hours of prep work are needed – just a few simple steps and you'll have a hearty and satisfying meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest cooks.
- Meat Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage, for a richer flavor)
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cheese Filling:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Assembly:
- 9 lasagne noodles (oven-ready preferred)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Simple Lasagne Recipe Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagne
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Layer 3 lasagne noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Top with another layer of meat sauce.
- Repeat layers: noodles, remaining ricotta cheese mixture, remaining meat sauce.
- Top with the remaining lasagne noodles and sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagne
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Let the lasagne rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
Tips for the Perfect Lasagne:
- Oven-ready noodles: Using oven-ready noodles simplifies the process and eliminates the need for pre-boiling.
- Don't overcook the noodles: Overcooked noodles can become mushy. Follow package instructions carefully if using non-oven ready noodles.
- Get creative with the meat: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the lasagne a day ahead of time and bake when ready. This can be helpful for meal prepping or entertaining.
This simple lasagne recipe is a fantastic starting point. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and meats to create your own personalized version! Enjoy!