Cooking Instructions
Making the Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef, ground pork, and Italian sausage. Brown the meat for about 8-10 minutes.
Once browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Season with your preferred Italian herbs and spices. Allow the sauce to simmer for 30-40 minutes, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
Preparing the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is creamy.
Cooking the Lasagna Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente.
Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay the noodles flat on a towel or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Assembling the Lasagna: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Start by layering a portion of the meat sauce at the bottom of the dish.
Place 3 noodles on top, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture and more meat sauce. Repeat this layering process two more times. Finish with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Baking the Lasagna: Cover the assembled lasagna with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown. For an extra crispy layer, you can broil the lasagna for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
When cooking this lasagna, remember to allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes after baking before slicing. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
Additionally, feel free to adjust the seasoning and ingredients to suit your personal tastes. You can prepare the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it. Enjoy!