Ultimate Meat Lasagna

Origin and Region:
Meat lasagna is a beloved Italian-American dish, rooted in the traditional Italian cuisine of Emilia-Romagna, particularly the city of Bologna. Over time, it has become a staple comfort food in many regions around the world, especially in North America.

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Introduction:
The Ultimate Meat Lasagna is a hearty and comforting dish featuring layers of rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and savory meat filling. This classic Italian-American favorite is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients:
For the meat sauce:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the cheese filling:

  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For assembling:

  • 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Optional Toppings and Tips:

  • You can add a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the lasagna for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the meat sauce.
  • Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles until al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until the meat is browned and the onions are softened.
  3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, until thickened.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  5. To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
  6. Spread half of the cheese filling over the noodles, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
  7. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of meat sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Description:
The Ultimate Meat Lasagna is a comforting and indulgent dish that features layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and tender lasagna noodles. Each bite is packed with flavor and texture, making it the perfect dish for satisfying hunger and warming the soul. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this classic Italian-American favorite is sure to be a hit.

Nutritional Information:
The nutritional information for the Ultimate Meat Lasagna can vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used. However, a typical serving may provide approximately:

  • Calories: 400-500 kcal
  • Protein: 25-30 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
  • Fat: 20-25 grams
  • Fiber: 3-5 grams

Conclusion and Recommendation:
The Ultimate Meat Lasagna is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. With its layers of savory meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and tender noodles, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a special gathering, this comforting dish is sure to be a favorite among your guests. Enjoy the delicious flavors and comforting warmth of this ultimate comfort food!

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