Instructions:
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef (or mixture of beef and sausage), breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, and sugar (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, and parsley.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
While the sauce is simmering, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions.
Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet, separating the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.
Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
Top with a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the layers (noodles, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella) until all the ingredients are used, ending with a final layer of noodles and meat sauce.
Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly and slightly golden brown.
Let It Rest:
Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the layers to set.
Serve:
Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the lasagna with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
You can also pair it with a glass of red wine like Chianti or a medium-bodied Merlot.
Enjoy your delicious and hearty homemade lasagna!
