Lasagna is a timeless Italian dish that beautifully combines layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese. Giada De Laurentiis’ version brings a delightful twist that is both comforting and satisfying. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, and each bite is a testament to the heart of Italian cuisine.
Imagine serving a dish that not only warms the heart but also pleases the palate with its harmonious blend of flavors. This lasagna is hearty and rich, with layers of tender noodles nestled between a savory beef ragu and a luscious béchamel sauce, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Giada’s Perfectly Layered Lasagna
This classic lasagna showcases a combination of tender pasta sheets and a robust meat sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Ground beef and Italian sausage meld together in a savory blend, creating a filling that is both hearty and satisfying.
Each layer of this dish brings its own charm; the creamy ricotta adds a delightful richness, while the blend of mozzarella and parmesan provides a gooey, melty texture that completes the experience. Baked until golden, this lasagna boasts a bubbling cheesy crown that is sure to please any crowd.
Creating the Perfect Meat Sauce
The foundation of any great lasagna lies in the meat sauce. Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet, allowing the flavors to develop as they cook. Once the meat is nicely browned, adding marinara sauce brings a tangy dimension to the dish.
Simmering the sauce melds the ingredients beautifully, creating a robust flavor profile that infuses the layers of lasagna. This step ensures that each bite is filled with savory goodness, making it a true comfort food staple.
Layering for Success
Assembling the lasagna is a crucial step. Begin with a layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your dish, followed by a layer of cooked lasagna noodles. Spreading the ricotta mixture next introduces a creamy texture that beautifully contrasts with the meaty sauce.
Continue layering with shredded mozzarella, repeating until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous topping of meat sauce and mozzarella. This thoughtful construction leads to a well-balanced dish where every ingredient shines.
The Baking Process
Before placing the lasagna in the oven, cover it with foil to trap moisture, promoting even cooking. Bake at a preheated temperature until the cheese is bubbling and golden on top. This process not only cooks the noodles perfectly but also allows the flavors to meld together harmoniously.
Letting the lasagna rest for a few minutes post-baking helps the layers set, making slicing much easier. The anticipation builds as the aroma fills the kitchen, signaling that a delicious meal is about to be served.
Garnishing and Serving
Before serving, a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to the dish. This garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes a fragrant note that elevates the entire experience.
Pairing this lasagna with a simple salad or some crusty bread completes the meal. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy dinner, this lasagna is sure to evoke warmth and comfort with every serving.
Nutritional Information
This hearty lasagna serves eight generous slices, making it perfect for sharing. Each slice contains approximately 480 calories, bringing together a satisfying combination of protein and carbohydrates.
With 30 grams of protein and a balanced mix of fats and carbs, it’s a meal that delights the palate while providing sustenance. Enjoying this dish is not just about the taste; it’s about creating memories around the dining table with loved ones.
Giada’s Perfectly Layered Lasagna
This lasagna features tender pasta sheets layered with a robust meat sauce made from ground beef and Italian sausage, creamy ricotta cheese, and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan. It’s baked to golden perfection, creating a bubbling, cheesy crown that is irresistible.
The taste is a delightful medley of savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy flavors, with each slice revealing its beautifully structured layers that are both indulgent and comforting.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Add the marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix the Ricotta: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble the Lasagna: In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom, followed by a layer of noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 480kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g