Looking for a comforting dish that brings the whole family together? This baked lasagna made with egg noodles is the perfect solution! It’s a classic recipe with a twist that’ll leave everyone asking for seconds. The layers of rich flavors and textures make this dish a standout at any dinner table.
Imagine the delightful aroma of savory meat sauce mingling with melted cheese, all wrapped up in tender egg noodles. This recipe is not just about feeding your family; it’s about creating lasting memories around the dinner table.
Layered Perfection
Creating the ideal lasagna is about balancing flavors and textures. The combination of egg noodles with a rich marinara sauce elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
The egg noodles provide a tender foundation that holds up beautifully against the hearty fillings, ensuring every bite is satisfying. Each layer of seasoned ground beef and flavorful cheese melds together, producing a symphony of taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Arranging these layers carefully is key. Starting with a layer of meat sauce ensures moisture reaches every component, while the cheese layers create that coveted gooey texture that brings joy to the table.
The Cheese Factor
Cheese is undoubtedly the star of any lasagna. In this recipe, a delightful mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy consistency that contrasts perfectly with the meat sauce.
The ricotta adds a light, fluffy texture, while mozzarella offers that stretchy, melty quality we all adore. Topping the dish with Parmesan not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to that gorgeous golden crust we all strive for.
To ensure the cheese melts to perfection, baking under foil for part of the cooking time is essential. This helps retain moisture, making every bite rich and luscious.
Fresh Ingredients, Fresh Flavor
Using fresh basil as a garnish not only adds a pop of color but also infuses the dish with a fragrant, herbaceous note. This herbal touch brightens the rich flavors of the lasagna, making it feel balanced and satisfying.
Pairing the lasagna with sides like garlic bread and a crisp salad rounds out the meal, offering a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta. The crunchy texture of the salad complements the softness of the lasagna, creating a satisfying dining experience.
Fresh ingredients elevate this dish, making each bite a celebration of flavor.
Perfect for Sharing
This baked lasagna serves eight, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers. Its comforting familiarity invites people to gather around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter.
Slicing the lasagna into generous portions allows everyone to enjoy a hearty serving. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but also in the memories created while sharing it with loved ones.
Kitchen Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, be sure to follow the cooking times and temperatures closely. Preheating the oven before baking ensures even cooking, while allowing the lasagna to rest before serving helps the layers set.
Feel free to customize the filling to suit your tastes. Adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can enhance the nutritional value while introducing new flavors.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheese blends to find your perfect combination. Each variation can lead to a new favorite version of this classic dish.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator can keep them fresh for several days.
Reheating is simple; just pop a slice in the microwave or warm it up in the oven until heated through. The flavors will continue to meld, often tasting even better the next day.
This makes it not only a delicious dinner option but also a practical one, ensuring that your efforts in the kitchen provide joy for days to come.
Classic Egg Noodle Lasagna Recipe
This lasagna with egg noodles is a hearty, comforting dish featuring layers of egg noodles interspersed with seasoned ground beef, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses. It’s savory, cheesy, and ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 egg noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then add marinara sauce. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the Lasagna: In a greased baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of egg noodles, then a layer of the ricotta mixture, and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Allow the lasagna to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 380kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 32g