Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta – Comfort in Layers

Lasagna is like a warm hug on a plate; layers of pasta, gooey cheese, and rich meat sauce meld together into a comforting embrace that can brighten even the cloudiest of days. Imagine slicing through the golden-brown top, revealing that perfect blend of flavors wafting up to greet you. It’s an aroma that promises warmth, nostalgia, and absolute deliciousness.

This lasagna recipe with ricotta is more than just food; it’s a delightful experience rooted in memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. Picture this: you’re gathered around the table with loved ones, laughter fills the air, and you know dinner is going to be special. The anticipation builds as you serve up generous portions, and everyone digs in with gleeful abandon. With each bite, you’ll savor layers of creamy ricotta, tangy marinara, and melty mozzarella that dance on your taste buds.

Ingredients for lasagna recipe with ricotta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Lasagna Noodles: Look for no-boil noodles if you want to save time; they cook perfectly in the oven.
• Ricotta Cheese: Choose whole milk ricotta for creaminess or part-skim for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
• Ground Beef or Sausage: Use your favorite type—beef gives a hearty taste while sausage adds nice spice.
• Marinara Sauce: Store-bought or homemade works well; just ensure it’s packed with flavor to enhance every layer.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella if you can; it melts beautifully and creates that bubbly top layer.

For the seasoning:

• Dried Oregano: Adds that classic Italian herb flavor we all adore in our lasagna.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the wonderful flavors in your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make lasagna recipe with ricotta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large baking dish (around 9×13 inches) and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown your ground beef or sausage until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and stir in your marinara sauce—let it simmer for about five minutes so the flavors meld together nicely.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta

In a mixing bowl, combine your ricotta cheese with some salt, pepper, and dried oregano. This is where the magic happens—you’ll create that creamy filling everyone will love!

Step 4: Layer It Up

Start layering! In your baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom. Place three noodles on top followed by half of the ricotta mixture and one-third of mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process until you’ve used all ingredients—ending with noodles topped by meat sauce and remaining mozzarella.

Step 5: Bake

Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil (don’t let it touch the cheese!) and bake for about 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Let it cool for about ten minutes before slicing into squares. Transfer to plates and enjoy this delightful creation!

Now grab your fork; it’s time to dig into this mouthwatering lasagna recipe with ricotta!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the sauce. Sauté onions and garlic, then layer your noodles, sauce, and ricotta mixture. Bake until golden and bubbly for that perfect comfort food experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences! Try adding spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies, or use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter twist. The options are endless!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, let them cool completely before covering tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture and flavor.

I remember the first time I made this lasagna recipe with ricotta for a family gathering. Everyone raved about it, even my picky cousin who usually only eats plain pasta!

FAQs:

What is the best type of ricotta to use for lasagna recipe with ricotta?

Using whole milk ricotta yields the best texture and flavor for your lasagna. This type of ricotta is creamier and richer, enhancing the overall taste of your dish. Avoid low-fat options, as they may not provide the same richness. You can also try homemade ricotta for a fresher flavor. Just remember, the quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final result, so choose wisely.

Can I make lasagna recipe with ricotta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your lasagna in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just assemble the layers and cover them with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows even cooking. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

How long does it take to bake lasagna recipe with ricotta?

Baking a classic lasagna typically takes around 45 minutes at 375°F (190°C). If you’ve assembled it beforehand and refrigerated it, it might need an additional 10-15 minutes in the oven. The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown when it’s ready. Make sure to let it rest for about 15 minutes after taking it out of the oven; this helps the layers set nicely for serving.

Can I customize my lasagna recipe with ricotta?

Yes, you can! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also switch up the meat by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For a twist on flavor, consider adding herbs such as basil or oregano. Customizing your lasagna allows you to cater to your preferences while still enjoying that classic comfort food experience.

Looking to expand your recipe collection? Check out these tasty recipes for your next culinary adventure.

Conclusion for lasagna recipe with ricotta:

In summary, making a delicious lasagna recipe with ricotta is straightforward and rewarding. Start by choosing high-quality ingredients like whole milk ricotta and fresh herbs to enhance flavors. Prepare ahead if needed, allowing easy meal prep for busy days. Remember to adjust baking times based on whether it’s freshly made or stored in advance. Enjoy this comforting dish that brings friends and family together around the table!

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Delicious Ricotta Lasagna Recipe

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Savor the comforting layers of ricotta and marinara in this crowd-pleasing lasagna, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

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Ingredients

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For the Lasagna:

• 9 no-boil lasagna noodles
• 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For Seasoning:

• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

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Instructions

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce; let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. 3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with salt, pepper, and oregano.
4. 4. Start layering: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish (9×13 inches). Place three noodles on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture and one-third of the mozzarella. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with noodles topped by meat sauce and remaining mozzarella.
5. 5. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil (avoiding contact with cheese) and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
6. 6. Let it cool for about ten minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 80mg