World’s Best Lasagna

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve come to the right place! The World’s Best Lasagna is not just any lasagna; it’s a family favorite that brings everyone together. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

Imagine pulling this bubbling masterpiece out of the oven, the aroma wafting through your home and drawing everyone to the kitchen. It’s truly special because it combines simple ingredients with love and care, making every bite memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves lasagna! It’s hearty and satisfying—perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and simply bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: The savory blend of sweet Italian sausage and spices creates an unforgettable flavor profile.
• Perfect for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day! Great for meal prep or quick lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Each one plays a key role in creating the delicious layers that make up the World’s Best Lasagna. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 pound of sweet Italian sausage
• ¾ pound of lean ground beef
• ½ cup of minced onion
• 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
• 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
• 2 (6.5 ounce) cans of tomato sauce
• 2 (6 ounce) cans of tomato paste
• ½ cup of water
• 2 tablespoons of white sugar
• 4 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley (divided)
• 1 ½ teaspoons of dried basil leaves
• 1 ½ teaspoons of salt (divided, or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon of fennel seeds
• ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper

For the Lasagna Layers

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 16 ounces of ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• ¾ pound of mozzarella cheese, sliced
• ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Variations

One great thing about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix it up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some tasty ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Layer in some spinach or zucchini slices for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute ricotta with a plant-based alternative if needed.
• Switch up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique twist.

How to Make World’s Best Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the sweet Italian sausage, lean ground beef, minced onion, and crushed garlic until they are nicely browned. This step is crucial because browning adds depth and richness to your sauce.

Step 2: Simmer the Sauce

Now stir in those vibrant crushed tomatoes along with tomato sauce and paste. Add water too! Season this mixture with sugar for balance, parsley for freshness, dried basil, salt, Italian seasoning, fennel seeds, and black pepper. Let it simmer covered for about 1 ½ hours. This slow cooking allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

While your sauce simmers away happily, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook those lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain them and rinse with cold water to stop them from cooking further.

Step 4: Mix Ricotta Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with an egg, remaining parsley, and a pinch more salt. This filling will add creaminess between those hearty layers!

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

Before you assemble your masterpiece, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). A hot oven is essential for getting that bubbly top we all love!

Step 6: Assemble Your Lasagna

Start layering in a 9×13-inch baking dish by spreading 1 ½ cups of meat sauce at the bottom. Next, lay down six noodles lengthwise over the sauce—overlapping slightly works well here. Spread half of that ricotta mixture over the noodles followed by one-third of mozzarella slices. Spoon another layer of meat sauce on top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Repeat Layers

Repeat those delightful layers again! Finish off by topping with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover it all with foil carefully so it doesn’t touch that cheesy goodness underneath.

Step 8: Bake It Up!

Bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes covered. After that time has passed, remove the foil and bake an additional 25 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 9: Rest Before Serving

Finally! Allow your beautiful lasagna to rest for about 15 minutes before serving. This resting time helps everything set so each slice comes out perfectly!

Enjoy your delicious homemade lasagna!

Pro Tips for Making World’s Best Lasagna

Making the perfect lasagna is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every single time.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of your sauce significantly. They add a vibrant taste that dried herbs simply can’t match.

• Let It Rest: Allowing your lasagna to rest for about 15 minutes after baking helps it set up, making it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.

• Layer Wisely: Be mindful of how you layer your ingredients. Starting with sauce at the bottom prevents sticking and ensures even cooking throughout each layer.

• Experiment with Cheese: Don’t hesitate to mix different types of cheese! Adding provolone or gouda can provide an extra depth of flavor that complements the mozzarella beautifully.

• Make It Ahead: Lasagna is a fabulous make-ahead meal! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to enjoy it.

How to Serve World’s Best Lasagna

Serving your homemade lasagna is just as important as making it! A little presentation goes a long way in impressing your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Placing a few fresh basil leaves on top before serving adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Shaved Parmesan: A light sprinkle of shaved Parmesan cheese will enhance the visual appeal and bring an extra cheesy goodness to every bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing with lasagna. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of lasagna. The crunchy romaine and creamy dressing balance out the meal nicely.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans can add color and nutrition. They complement the heaviness of the lasagna beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables not only looks great but also adds depth with their caramelized flavors, making for a well-rounded dinner experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create and enjoy the world’s best lasagna! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This lasagna recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it stores well for future meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-5 days.
• For individual portions, cut into slices and store in airtight containers.

Freezing

• Assemble the lasagna but do not bake it.
• Wrap the unbaked lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
• If refrigerated, cover with foil and heat for about 25 minutes.
• If frozen, cover with foil and bake directly from frozen for about 1 hour, removing the foil in the last 15 minutes to allow the cheese to bubble.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making the World’s Best Lasagna!

Can I use different types of cheese in this World’s Best Lasagna?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique flavor. Just remember to keep a good balance of creaminess.

How long does it take to prepare the World’s Best Lasagna?

The total time is about 2 hours, including preparation and cooking. It’s well worth the wait for such a delicious meal!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the sausage and ground beef with your favorite vegetables or plant-based protein. Mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini work wonderfully!

How do I know when my lasagna is done baking?

Your lasagna is ready when the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before serving to set up nicely.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this wonderful World’s Best Lasagna as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with warmth, comfort, and love shared around your dining table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or savoring leftovers all week long, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!