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Perfect Easter Sunday Meat Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta and Fresh Basil

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A hearty and comforting meat lasagna layered with creamy ricotta, fresh basil, and a savory meat sauce, perfect for Easter or any family gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (optional)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 6 oz tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup water or red wine
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 9–12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Butter or olive oil for greasing the pan

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add ground beef and Italian sausage to the pan, breaking up the meat. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water or red wine. Add dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, beaten egg, grated Parmesan, chopped fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until smooth.
  5. If using regular noodles, boil according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and lay flat on a lightly oiled baking sheet to prevent sticking. Skip if using no-boil noodles.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or olive oil. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
  7. Layer 3-4 noodles over the sauce, spread one-third of the ricotta mixture evenly on top, add a generous layer of meat sauce, then sprinkle about one cup of shredded mozzarella.
  8. Repeat layers two more times, ending with a final layer of noodles, meat sauce, and remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
  9. Cover lasagna with foil (tent slightly) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing to allow layers to set.

Notes

Add a pinch of sugar or splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce during simmering to enhance flavor. Let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing for better texture. Use no-boil noodles to skip boiling step, but ensure sauce is slightly more liquidy. For gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles or vegetable slices as noodles. For dairy-free, substitute ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: lasagna, meat lasagna, ricotta, fresh basil, Easter recipe, Italian, comfort food, family dinner

Find it online: https://tomyumy.com/perfect-easter-sunday-meat-lasagna-recipe-with-ricotta-and-fresh-basil-easy-step-by-step-guide/