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American Lasagna

American Lasagna is a classic Italian-American dish that has become a staple in many households across the United States. This hearty and comforting meal is a favorite for family gatherings, potlucks, and weeknight dinners. American Lasagna is a delicious and satisfying combination of layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey melted mozzarella, all baked to golden perfection.

Prep Time:

30 mins

Cook Time:

1 hr

Additional Time:

10 mins

Total Time:

1 hr 40 mins

Servings:

Yield:

1 9x13-inch dish

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds lean ground beef

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (29 ounce) can diced tomatoes

2 (6 ounce) cans tomato paste

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil

2 ½ teaspoons salt, divided

1 teaspoon dried oregano

12 dry lasagna noodles

1 pint part-skim ricotta cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 large eggs, beaten

2 tablespoons dried parsley

1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Step 1

Gather all ingredients.

Step 2

Cook and stir ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes; drain fat.

Step 3

Mix in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, basil, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and oregano. Simmer meat sauce, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 4

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Step 5

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles in boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes; drain. Lay noodles flat on towels; blot dry.

Step 6

Mix together ricotta, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, eggs, parsley, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl.

Step 7

Layer 1/3 of the noodles in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover with 1/2 of the ricotta mixture.

Step 8

Cover the ricotta mixture with 1/2 of the mozzarella cheese, and 1/3 of the meat sauce.

Step 9

Repeat. Top with remaining noodles and meat sauce. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Step 11

Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

664

Calories

30g

Fat

48g

Carbs

51g

Protein

Complement

The origins of American Lasagna can be traced back to Italian immigrants who brought their traditional recipes with them to the United States. Over time, the dish evolved to include ingredients that were more readily available in the American market, such as ground beef and canned tomato sauce. This adaptation resulted in a rich and flavorful lasagna that has become a beloved part of American cuisine. Whether served as a main course or as a side dish, American Lasagna continues to be a beloved comfort food that brings people together around the dinner table.