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cheesy lasagna recipe

This cheesy lasagna is a comforting and hearty dish that layers pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s sure to delight everyone at the table.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 large saucepan
  • 1 wooden spoon
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 ladle
  • 1 aluminum foil
  • 1 oven

Ingredients
  

  • 12 noodles lasagna noodles
  • 1 pound ground beef Can be substituted with sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
  • Add the marinara sauce to the beef and stir until well combined. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, basil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth.
  • Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
  • Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, half of the remaining meat sauce, and one-third of the mozzarella cheese.
  • Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and another third of the mozzarella cheese.
  • Top with the final layer of noodles, the remaining meat sauce, remaining mozzarella cheese, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
  • Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini.
You can also add extra layers of cheese or vegetables based on personal preferences.
Serve with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!