Classic Homemade Cheesy Lasagna

Ingredients:

• 450g ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (800g) of crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 250g lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 425g ricotta cheese
• 225g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and cook until translucent.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.
5. In a baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on top.
6. Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
7. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Flavor Profile:

This Classic Homemade Cheesy Lasagna is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey mozzarella come together to create a symphony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!