Lasagna is one of those classic dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and Maggiano’s Lasagna is no exception. With layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy cheese, and just the right amount of love, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you’re craving comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This lasagna is all about hearty, rich flavors and a perfect balance of textures. Each bite gives you a taste of nostalgia with its homemade feel, but it’s surprisingly simple to put together. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Here’s a quick look at some of the ingredients you’ll need to make this lasagna. You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements below.
- Lasagna noodles
- Ground beef and Italian sausage
- Marinara sauce
- Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and lay them flat on a clean surface to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Drain any excess grease, then stir in your favorite marinara sauce. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and an egg. This mixture will create those creamy, cheesy layers that everyone loves.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Grab a baking dish and spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of noodles, followed by cheese filling, and then more meat sauce. Repeat this process, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Avoid Soggy Layers: Pat your noodles dry after boiling to prevent extra moisture in the dish.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a subtle kick.
- Resting Time: Let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Meatless Option: Swap out the meat for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even lentils for a vegetarian twist.
- Cheese Variations: Use provolone or fontina for a unique flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this recipe gluten-friendly.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Lasagna pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and a side of garlic bread. For drinks, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a sparkling Italian soda complements the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
- To freeze, assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 375°F, adding an extra 20-30 minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
1. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when you’re ready.
2. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, a high-quality store-bought sauce works perfectly. Feel free to jazz it up with extra garlic or herbs.
3. How do I keep my lasagna from falling apart when serving?
Let it rest after baking. This allows the layers to set, making slicing and serving easier.
4. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Of course! Zucchini, bell peppers, or shredded carrots are excellent additions. Just sauté them before layering.
Conclusion
Maggiano’s Lasagna is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. From the tantalizing aroma as it bakes to the satisfied smiles around the table, this dish has a way of bringing people together. Give it a try, and don’t forget to savor every layer of cheesy, saucy goodness!
Print
Maggiano’s Lasagna
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A hearty, layered Italian-American lasagna featuring crumbled meatballs, Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and a rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (6 oz each) tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Ricotta Mixture:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve 0.5 cup for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- Additional 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté diced onion until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Italian sausage and ground beef; cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and red wine (if using).
- Add sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer uncovered for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
- Cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce.
- Place a layer of noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Add a layer of meat sauce on top of the ricotta.
- Repeat the layers: noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, meat sauce.
- Finish with a final layer of noodles and meat sauce.
- Sprinkle remaining 0.5 cup of mozzarella and additional 0.5 cup of Parmesan on top.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley.
- Serve with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage.
- The red wine adds depth to the sauce but can be omitted if preferred.
- This lasagna can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of lasagna)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 110mg