Classic Lasagna
Recipe Overview
Overview
Lasagna is a beloved dish that many people cherish, and making it from scratch can be a rewarding experience. This recipe starts with creating fresh pasta sheets, which adds a delightful texture to the dish. The process of kneading the dough and rolling it out can be a bit of a workout, but the results are worth it. The homemade pasta not only tastes better but also elevates the overall experience of the lasagna.
The meat sauce is where the magic happens. Combining hot and sweet Italian sausage creates a robust flavor profile, while the addition of fennel seeds and garlic adds aromatic depth. Toasting the tomato paste before mixing in the whole tomatoes is a crucial step that enhances the sauce’s richness. As the sauce simmers, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a savory base for the layers of pasta and cheese.
When it comes to assembling the lasagna, the layering technique is key. Starting with a layer of sauce prevents the pasta from sticking, and each layer of pasta, ricotta, and mozzarella builds upon the last. The final touch of mozzarella on top ensures a bubbly, golden finish. This lasagna is not just a meal; it’s a labor of love that brings people together around the table.
Once baked, the lasagna emerges with crispy edges and a melty interior, making it hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this classic lasagna is sure to impress and satisfy.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Make pasta sheets from scratch by adding flour to a well and whisking in eggs.
Tip: You don't have to make your pasta fresh for lasagna; it will be good either way.
Tip: A bench scraper is a great tool for making fresh pasta; it keeps your work surface clean.
Tip: Accept the messiness when making pasta; it's part of the process.
Knead the pasta dough until smooth.
Roll out the pasta into long sheets.
Tip: Making fresh pasta is a fun process, but it's not necessary for a delicious lasagna.
Cut the pasta sheets to size using the baking dish.
Tip: It's okay if your pasta sheets aren't all perfect; the lasagna will be fine either way.
Tip: Make sure you have enough pasta for four layers in your lasagna.
Layer parchment between the pasta sheets to prevent sticking.
Tip: Cover pasta sheets with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
Prepare the sauce by splitting open Italian sausage and removing the casing.
Tip: Searing the sausage helps develop a crust, which adds flavor.
Chop fennel seeds and onion, and mince garlic.
Heat olive oil in a pot and add the Italian sausage.
Tip: Don't be afraid to crank the heat to high to get a nice crust on the sausage.
Add chopped onion to the sausage and sprinkle with salt.
Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and crushed fennel.
Add tomato paste to the sauce and toast it.
Tip: Scrape the bottom of the pot to get all the crispy bits; that's where the real flavor is.
Tip: Toasting the tomato paste develops flavor, similar to making brown butter.
Crush whole tomatoes into the sauce.
Tip: Add basil leaves at the end for amazing flavor.
Add basil leaves to the sauce and let it cook uncovered.
Make the ricotta filling by mixing ricotta, Parmesan, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt.
Tip: Taste the ricotta filling before adding eggs to adjust seasoning.
Add eggs to the ricotta mixture and mix until combined.
Tip: Grate mozzarella cheese the long way for the longest strands.
Grate mozzarella cheese and transfer it to a bowl.
Layer red sauce, pasta sheets, ricotta filling, and cheeses in the baking dish.
Tip: Spread ricotta cheese evenly using an offset spatula for better results.
Tip: Layer sauce all the way to the edges to prevent pasta from sticking or burning.
Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used.
Tip: Keep everything level while layering to ensure the lasagna holds together.
Add a final layer of red sauce and mozzarella on top.
Tip: The messier your lasagna looks, the better it tends to turn out in flavor.
Tip: Cover the lasagna with a thick layer of mozzarella for a great top.
Place the lasagna on a sheet tray and bake it in the oven.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Almond Milk
Ingredient: Eggs
→ Substitution: Flaxseed Meal + Water
Ingredient: Gluten
→ Substitution: Gluten-Free Flour Blend
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Making fresh pasta can enhance the texture of lasagna, giving it a melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- •Using a combination of hot and sweet Italian sausage adds depth of flavor to the meat sauce.
- •Toasting tomato paste before adding other ingredients develops a richer flavor.
- •Layering the lasagna properly ensures even cooking and prevents it from being lopsided.
