Classic Homemade Lasagna

Ingredients

• 12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
• 1 lb lean ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Salt, pepper, and fresh parsley to taste

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef (or sausage) with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is fully cooked. Drain off excess grease.
2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Lower the heat and let the meat sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes.
3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, the beaten egg, 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella, the grated Parmesan cheese, and a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley. Mix well.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
5. **Assemble the layers:** Spread 1 cup of meat sauce across the bottom of the dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, then top with 1 cup of meat sauce and 1 cup of mozzarella. Repeat the layers (noodles, ricotta, sauce, mozzarella) one more time. Top with final noodles, remaining sauce, and the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil (so it doesn't stick to the cheese) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving so the layers stay beautifully intact.