Pasta Lasagna

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound lasagna noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casing
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 1 hour 30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
3. In a large skillet, brown ground beef and sausage over medium heat.
4. Add onion and garlic to skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Top with 3 lasagna noodles.
9. Spread with half of the ricotta mixture.
10. Top with 1 cup meat sauce.
11. Repeat layers, ending with meat sauce.
12. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
13. Bake for 1 hour or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 550 per serving
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 28g

Dish Characteristics:

• Savory and meaty
• Rich and creamy
• Comforting and satisfying
• Versatile and customizable

User Comments:

• "This lasagna was absolutely delicious! The flavors were well-balanced and the cheese was melted perfectly."
• "I've made this lasagna several times and it's always a crowd-pleaser."
• "This is the best lasagna I've ever had. I highly recommend it!"

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use a non-stick baking dish to prevent lasagna from sticking.
• Cover the lasagna with foil if it starts to brown too quickly.
• Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.