Easy Homemade Lasagna

This easy homemade lasagna is a delightful Italian classic, crafted with simplicity yet bursting with flavor. The layers of tender pasta sheets, perfectly seasoned meat, juicy tomatoes, creamy mushrooms, and a blanket of golden, melted cheese make it a favorite for many. The dish is harmoniously balanced with rich tomato and creamy sauces, offering comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced chef, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delicious outcome. It’s the perfect meal for family gatherings, a cozy dinner, or even as leftovers for the following day. Adjustable to various taste preferences, this lasagna can be as spicy, cheesy, or creamy as you desire. Moreover, it's an excellent canvas for culinary creativity, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients and spices. Readily enjoyable on its own or paired with a side dish, this lasagna is a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this savory adventure!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Lasagna sheets (quantity based on dish size)
• 500 g of minced meat
• 300 g of cheese (such as Krievijas Smiltenes piens)
• 4 tomatoes
• 300-400 g fresh mushrooms (champignons)
• 1 onion
• 1 clove garlic
• Tomato sauce
• Cream

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Veggies: Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic.
2. Cook the Meat: In a pan, sauté the chopped onion and garlic with the minced meat until the meat is browned.
3. Blanch the Tomatoes: While the meat cooks, briefly immerse the tomatoes in hot water to remove their skins easily.
4. Dice Tomatoes: Once peeled, chop the tomatoes into small cubes.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes to the partially cooked meat mixture. Let them cook until the tomatoes soften slightly.
6. Season the Meat: Sprinkle with your choice of spices or a pinch of salt and some black pepper for an added kick.
7. Make the Sauce: Once the tomatoes are softened, pour in the tomato sauce and stir until it bubbles lightly. Add the cream, letting it bubble again to form a rich sauce.
8. Layer The Dish: Grease your baking dish and spread a thin layer of the sauce.
9. Pre-Cook Lasagna Sheets: For softer lasagna, dip the sheets one by one in boiling water for 2 minutes before layering to prevent sticking together.
10. Build Layers: Place a layer of lasagna sheets over the sauce.
11. Add Fillings: Spread more sauce, then sprinkle with grated cheese and thinly sliced mushrooms.
12. Repeat: Continue layering with sheets, sauce, cheese, and mushrooms, reaching near the edge of the dish.
13. Top it Off: End with a final layer of sauce, more mushrooms, and a generous amount of cheese.
14. Cover and Bake: If your dish doesn't have a lid, cover it with foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
15. Serve it Up: Once baked, slice the lasagna and serve hot. Enjoy the creamy texture and harmonious flavors!

Tips

• Cheese Choice: Substitute Krievijas Smiltenes piens with mozzarella or any other melting cheese for varied flavors.
• Make it Spicy: For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or extra black pepper to the sauce.
• Herb Variations: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or basil into the sauce for an aromatic touch.

Nutritions

(Optional) - A typical serving can contain approximately:

• Calories: 450-500
• Protein: 25 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with extra mushrooms or a medley of vegetables like zucchini and peppers.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna sheets.
• Low-Cheese Version: Reduce the cheese or choose a low-fat cheese option.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Beverage Pairing: Complement with red wine or a sparkling water with lemon.

Best Places

• La Pergola - A luxurious experience offering the best lasagna with stunning views. Location: Rome Cavalieri, Via Alberto Cadlolo 101, Rome, Italy.
• Casa Luna - Known for its cozy atmosphere and renowned lasagna. Location: Calle Chincheta, 1, 18001 Granada, Spain.
• Trattoria Toscana - Offers a traditional taste of lasagna in a homey setting. Location: Via della Scala, 59, Florence, Italy.
• Locanda Verde - A New York favorite offering a creative twist on lasagna. Location: 377 Greenwich St, New York, USA.
• Osteria dei Poeti - This charming eatery provides an authentic Italian lasagna experience. Location: Via dei Poeti 1, Bologna, Italy.
• Chez Panisse - An upscale take on lasagna with organic ingredients. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
• L'Anima - Offers a mix of Italian and contemporary lasagna dishes. Location: 1 Snowden St, London, UK.
• Giando on the Water - A modern vibe with excellent lasagna overlooking scenic views. Location: Tower 1, Starcrest, 9 Star Street, Hong Kong.
• Da Gino al Parlamento - Famous for its traditional lasagna in a quaint setting. Location: Vicolo Rosini 4, Rome, Italy.
• Pizzeria Mozza - Brings a slice of Italy with its classic and modern lasagna. Location: 641 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, USA.