Traditional Italian Lasagna: Classic Comfort Food

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Are you craving a hearty, family-friendly meal? Look no further! Our Traditional Italian Lasagna recipe will satisfy your cravings and bring a smile to everyone at the table. This classic comfort dish oozes with rich, savory flavors layered between tender pasta sheets.

Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
• 3/4 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup minced onions
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 cans crushed tomatoes (28 oz)
• 12 oz tomato paste
• 13 oz canned tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoon dried basil leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 lb ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 1/2 lbs mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Cook the sausage, ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until evenly brown. Drain excess fats.

2. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Season with sugar, basil, and 1/2 teaspoon salt, then simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

3. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles for 8 to 10 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water.

4. Combine ricotta cheese, egg, and the remaining 3/4 teaspoon salt in a mixing bowl.

5. To assemble, start by spreading 1 1/2 cups of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer with 3 lasagna noodles, half of the ricotta cheese mixture, half of the mozzarella cheese, and a third of the Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers, and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil.

6. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, and bake an additional 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

This Traditional Italian Lasagna is a perfect midweek comfort dish or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering. Serve with a green salad and fresh garlic bread for an irresistible meal. Enjoy!

Please note that cooking times and temperatures may vary due to variations in ovens or altitude. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using kitchen appliances and pay close attention to your dish to avoid overcooking.

Remember, the key to a perfect lasagna is the layering – take your time with it and you’ll have a masterpiece on your hands. Happy cooking!

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