If you’re on the hunt for a comforting meal that brings the family together, look no further than Joanna Gaines’ classic lasagna. This recipe is a delightful blend of rich flavors and hearty ingredients, perfect for any occasion. With layers of creamy ricotta, savory meat sauce, and bubbling mozzarella, it’s a dish that tastes like home.
Imagine gathering around the table, the aroma of baked lasagna filling the air, as you serve up generous portions to loved ones. This recipe captures the essence of cozy gatherings and is sure to become a staple in your household.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy family dinner, this lasagna recipe is a showstopper that will impress everyone at the table.
Delicious Layers of Comfort
Lasagna is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary tradition that brings warmth to any dining table. This dish showcases layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, and a rich meat sauce that create a delightful experience with each bite.
The beauty of this baked lasagna lies in its contrasting textures. The golden-brown top, slightly crispy from baking, gives way to gooey cheese and savory sauce underneath. Each layer melds together harmoniously, making it a comfort food classic that can satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.
A Savory Meat Sauce
The foundation of this lasagna is a robust meat sauce that elevates the entire dish. Ground beef or Italian sausage is sautéed with onions and garlic until perfectly browned, infusing the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. It’s then combined with crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a blend of herbs, simmering to create a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
This sauce not only adds richness but also acts as the glue that holds all the layers together. Each spoonful offers a burst of flavor, making the lasagna a true crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Cheesy Goodness
Layers of melted mozzarella and creamy ricotta are what make this dish genuinely special. The ricotta mixture, lightened with an egg, creates a creamy contrast to the savory meat sauce, while the mozzarella offers that gooey, stretchy texture we all crave.
As the lasagna bakes, the cheeses melt and bubble, forming a golden crust on top that adds a delightful crunch. The combination of these cheeses results in a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is hard to resist.
Preparation and Baking
Preparing the lasagna might seem like a task, but it’s quite straightforward. Begin by cooking the noodles until they are al dente and ready to layer. The assembly process involves spreading layers of meat sauce, noodles, and cheese mixtures in a baking dish, creating a visually appealing stacked dish.
Once assembled, the lasagna is covered with foil and baked until it’s hot and bubbly. A quick removal of the foil towards the end of the baking time allows the top to achieve that beautiful golden-brown finish, ready to impress anyone at the table.
Serving Suggestions
Once out of the oven, let the lasagna cool for a few moments before slicing. This waiting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and flavor that enhances the presentation.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread, completing a meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this lasagna is bound to be the star of the show.
A Meal Worth Sharing
Lasagna is the kind of dish that prompts conversations and laughter around the table, drawing everyone together. Its hearty nature and comforting flavors make it perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations.
As you slice into the layers, the sight of gooey cheese and rich meat sauce will surely tantalize everyone’s taste buds. This classic lasagna recipe is one to keep close, ensuring that each gathering is filled with warmth and joy.
A Heartwarming Lasagna Recipe by Joanna Gaines
This classic lasagna features layers of al dente noodles, a robust meat sauce with Italian herbs, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella. It’s comforting, delicious, and offers a perfect balance of flavors, making each bite a treat.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage with chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with noodles topped with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g