How to Make the Perfect Classic Lasagna

For many, lasagna is a beloved family meal that brings everyone together on special occasions or after a long week of work. A classic Italian-American dish, lasagna is rich in flavor and has layers of pasta, cheese, and meat sauce. This article will provide you with all the necessary steps to prepare this delicious meal at home.

Lets get started!

Ingredients

• 16 oz lasagna noodles
• 4 cups ricotta cheese
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 9 ounces)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes with basil and garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for greasing the pan
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for topping

Steps to Make the Perfect Classic Lasagna

To begin making your classic lasagna, you will need a few simple tools and ingredients. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You should also have a large pot of boiling water ready for cooking pasta.

1. Cook the noodles in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain them, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
2. For the filling, combine ricotta cheese with eggs, Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm up your crushed tomatoes mixed with red pepper flakes and olive oil. Stir until heated through but not boiling.
4. On the bottom of an oiled lasagna dish, spread about 1/4 cup of sauce. Add two or three layers of lasagna noodles on top, making sure to cover them lightly with a layer of sauce between each noodle layer.
5. In each layer of pasta, add half of your ricotta mixture and another third of the mozzarella. Then pour over more crushed tomatoes until you run out of the filling ingredients.
6. After the last noodle is layered on top, spoon any remaining sauce over the entire lasagna. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover tightly with aluminum foil, and bake in your preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until bubbling hot inside and golden brown on top. Let it cool for about 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together properly.

Cooking Time & Servings

The cooking time for this recipe is approximately 45 minutes total, including cooling time after baking. The lasagna yields around 8 servings.

Enjoy the Meal!

Once your classic lasagna has cooled appropriately and you are ready to enjoy a delicious dinner with loved ones, slice it into portions, garnish with more fresh Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot from the oven. Your family will surely appreciate the effort that went into creating such a comforting dish.