Classic Lasagna Recipe

Certainly! Here's a classic lasagna recipe for you:

Ingredients:

- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 pound (225g) Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
- 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set them aside.

2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage (if using), chopped onion, and minced garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.

3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and egg. Mix well.

5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

6. To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Place three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese and a third of the Parmesan cheese. Repeat this layering process once more.

7. Place the final three lasagna noodles on top, cover them with the remaining meat sauce, and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the lasagna is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is golden brown.

9. Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your classic homemade lasagna!

This recipe serves approximately 8 people. Adjust the ingredients accordingly if you need to serve more or fewer people. Enjoy your delicious homemade lasagna!