If you’re a fan of rich Italian flavors and comforting meals, the San Giorgio Lasagna recipe is here to satisfy all your cravings! This classic Italian dish brings together layers of perfectly cooked pasta, hearty beef, tangy marinara, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella. Ready to impress at your next family dinner or gathering? Let’s dive into the details!
Lasagna is not just food; it’s a labor of love that brings people together around the dinner table. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a big holiday feast, serving this hearty dish creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The beauty of lasagna lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize flavors and ingredients to reflect your tastes. Whip up a batch of San Giorgio Lasagna, and your taste buds will thank you for this delightful experience!
Why You’ll Love This San Giorgio Lasagna
- Satisfying Layers: Each bite offers an exquisite combination of flavors and textures, with layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and sauce harmonizing beautifully.
- Comfort Food: It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up during colder months or for special occasions with family and friends.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the lasagna ahead of time and keep it in the fridge or freeze it for later, making it a great option for busy days.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or available ingredients, whether that means using turkey instead of beef or adding extra vegetables.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the San Giorgio Lasagna recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen efficiently. Start by organizing your ingredients and tools to facilitate a smooth cooking process. You will need a large skillet for cooking the meat, a mixing bowl for combining the ricotta and egg mixture, and a 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling the lasagna.
Make sure your countertop is clean and clear of clutter, as this will help speed up your prep time. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to allow it to reach the desired temperature while you layer your lasagna. Having a sharp knife on hand for cutting the onions and a wooden spoon for stirring the meat sauce will also make the process more enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 12 San Giorgio Lasagna noodles (pre-cooked)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 32 oz Ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 26 oz marinara sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Noodles
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your lasagna bakes evenly to golden perfection. As the oven heats up, prepare the 12 San Giorgio lasagna noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions until they reach a delightful al dente texture. After boiling, rinse the noodles with cold water to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce
Next, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the 1 lb of ground beef, followed by the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these ingredients for about 8-10 minutes until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy. Once drained, pour in the 26 oz of marinara sauce. Stir well to combine and allow it to simmer gently to enhance the flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
While the meat sauce is simmering, take a separate mixing bowl and add in the 32 oz of ricotta cheese. Crack the 2 beaten eggs into the bowl and sprinkle in the chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix this until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency—this layer adds a rich creaminess to your lasagna.
Step 4: Layer Your Lasagna
Now it’s time to build your lasagna! Grab the 9×13-inch baking dish and start by spreading 1/3 of the meat sauce at the bottom. Lay 4 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, making sure they are evenly spaced. Next, spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a generous sprinkling of 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering process once more, ensuring you finish with the remaining noodles and meat sauce on top. For a final touch, sprinkle the last of the mozzarella cheese along with the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan for that perfect cheesy crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is bubbling and golden brown. Once it comes out of the oven, resist the temptation to cut into it right away. Let it rest for about 15 minutes; this will help the layers hold together beautifully when you slice into it.
Variations
- Protein: For a lighter version, try substituting the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier twist.
- Vegetables: Add layers of sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices, like oregano or red pepper flakes, to enhance the marinara sauce’s flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients, especially herbs and cheese, makes a significant difference in flavor.
- Bake on a Middle Rack: Placing the lasagna in the middle of the oven ensures even heat distribution for perfect cooking.
- Let it Rest: Give the lasagna enough time to set before serving, which will make it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp side salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian meal experience.
- A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the lasagna.
Tips
- Make Ahead: Prepare the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
- Freeze for Later: Lasagna freezes well. Cover individual portions with foil or in airtight containers for future meals.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 25 grams
- Sodium: 700 mg
FAQs
What can I substitute for beef in lasagna?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option.
Can I make lasagna in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?
Ensure that any vegetables you add are pre-cooked and that your sauce isn’t too thin. Allow the lasagna to rest before cutting to help set the layers.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, lasagna freezes well! Just cover it with foil or plastic wrap and put it in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
The San Giorgio Lasagna is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and richness that embodies Italian cooking. By preparing this delightful dish, you’re not only treating yourself but also providing a wonderful dining option for family and friends alike. Its comforting layers and cheesy goodness will have everyone asking for seconds! So, gather your ingredients and try this recipe today. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or any special twists you added — cooking is all about creativity!
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San Giorgio Lasagna
- Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A classic Italian dish that brings together layers of rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
- 12 San Giorgio Lasagna noodles (pre-cooked)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 32 oz Ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 26 oz marinara sauce
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, then rinse with cold water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic for 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat, add marinara sauce, and simmer.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, parsley, salt, and black pepper until creamy.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer 1/3 meat sauce, 4 noodles, 1/2 ricotta mixture, and 1 cup mozzarella. Repeat the layering, finishing with noodles and meat sauce topped with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes and let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
Let the lasagna rest before slicing to keep it from falling apart.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Protein: 25 g