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Classic Lasagna

4.6
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PREP TIME
85 min
COOKING TIME
75 min
TOTAL TIME
170 min
SERVINGS
8 servings
Dinner
Classic Lasagna
Ingredients
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1/2 pound lean ground beef
  • 1/2 cup minced onion
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, divided
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/8 teaspoon white sugar
  • 1 (16 ounce) package lasagna noodles
  • 1 pound small-curd cottage cheese
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 (16 ounce) package shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
1
Combine pork and ground beef in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat; cook and stir until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. The mixture will start to transform as it hits the pan - a crucial step in developing its rich flavor profile.
2
Add onion to the skillet and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. This step is essential in breaking down the onion's cell structure and releasing its natural sweetness.
3
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, garlic, basil, salt, oregano, and sugar. The combination of these ingredients will create a harmonious balance of flavors that will elevate the dish to new heights.
4
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes. This prolonged cooking time allows the flavors to meld together and intensify, resulting in a rich and satisfying sauce.
5
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cooking the lasagna noodles in boiling water will help them become tender yet firm to the bite, 8 to 10 minutes.
6
While the noodles are cooking, preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This initial step sets the stage for a perfectly baked lasagna.
7
Mix cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, remaining 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until combined. The key to this step is achieving a smooth and creamy texture, which will be crucial in binding the cheese mixture together.
8
Assemble lasagna: Spread a spoon or two of sauce over the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish just to coat it. This initial layer will provide a solid foundation for the rest of the lasagna.
9
Place two layers of noodles over the sauce to cover. Layer with 1/2 of the cheese mixture, 1/2 of the remaining sauce, and 1/2 of the mozzarella cheese. This strategic layering will ensure a perfectly balanced flavor and texture.
10
Repeat layers once more using the remaining noodles, cheese mixture, sauce, and mozzarella. This final layer will complete the lasagna, providing a satisfying finish to this culinary masterpiece.
11
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This initial step will help retain moisture and promote even cooking.
12
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes. The lasagna will emerge from the oven with a perfectly cooked interior and a golden-brown crust.
13
Remove the foil and bake until cheese is golden brown, 5 to 10 more minutes. This final step will add a satisfying crunch and flavor to the lasagna.
14
Remove from the oven and let stand for 10 minutes before cutting and serving. This brief pause will allow the flavors to settle, resulting in a truly exceptional dining experience.