Italian Lasagna
Italian lasagna is a beloved and iconic dish that has captured the hearts and palates of people all over the world. Originating in the region of Emilia-Romagna in Italy, lasagna is a traditional Italian pasta dish that is made with layers of flat pasta sheets, rich tomato sauce, creamy béchamel, and a variety of savory fillings such as ground meat, vegetables, and cheese. This classic comfort food has become a staple in Italian cuisine and has been adapted and enjoyed in countless variations in households and restaurants globally.
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
5 hrs 40 mins
Total Time:
6 hrs 10 mins
Servings:
12
Yield:
1 9x13-inch lasagna
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1
Make the sauce: Brown bacon and onion in a large pan over medium heat until bacon is crisp and onion is translucent, 7 to 9 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, fennel seed, and oregano. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until thick, 4 to 6 hours.
Step 2
Cook the sausage: When the sauce is almost ready, brown sausage links in a large skillet. Drain on paper towels and cut into 1-inch pieces.
Step 3
Make the lasagna: Mix ricotta cheese, milk, eggs, parsley, and oregano together in a medium bowl.
Step 4
Spread 1 cup sauce over the bottom of a 9x13-inch pan. Layer with 1/3 of the lasagna noodles, 1/2 of the ricotta mixture, 1/2 of the sausage pieces, 2 cups mozzarella, 4 slices provolone, and 1/3 of the sauce. Repeat layers once more, then top with remaining noodles. Spread remaining sauce over noodles and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 hours.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
944
Calories
64g
Fat
43g
Carbs
50g
Protein
Complement
The word "lasagna" actually refers to the pasta itself, which is typically made with durum wheat and water. The dish is believed to have been created in Ancient Greece and brought to Italy by the Romans, where it evolved into the lasagna we know today. The layers of pasta, sauce, and filling are baked to perfection, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy family dinner. Whether it's a traditional meaty lasagna or a vegetarian version with layers of roasted vegetables, Italian lasagna continues to be a timeless and comforting dish that brings people together around the dinner table.
