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Lasagna for a Crowd

Lasagna for a Crowd: Irresistible Comfort Food to Share

This Quick Lasagna for a Crowd is the perfect meal for gatherings, packed with layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and a blend of cheeses.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • Lasagna Noodles Use fresh or dried; adapt to your cooking time and texture preference.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Chuck Rich in flavor; swap for turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Choose sweet or hot based on spice preference.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh is best to enhance flavor.
  • 2 cans San Marzano Tomatoes 28-ounce cans; perfect for sauce.
For the Cheese Filling
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Opt for whole milk for a richer filling.
  • 1 cup Pecorino Cheese Sharp contrast; substitute with Parmesan if preferred.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Shredded for gooeyness.
For Freshness and Texture
  • Herbs (Basil & Parsley) Fresh herbs uplift flavors; dried can be used if necessary.
  • Spinach Optional; well-drained if frozen.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground chuck and Italian sausage, breaking apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain fat, sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in crushed San Marzano tomatoes, season, and simmer for 45 minutes.
  2. In a bowl, combine ricotta, Pecorino, mozzarella, and chopped herbs. Mix until smooth and season to taste.
  3. Bring salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles for 2-3 minutes less than package instructions for al dente. Drain and lay flat on a clean towel.
  4. In a baking dish, layer meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, more meat sauce, and mozzarella. Repeat two more times, finishing with meat sauce and mozzarella.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cover lasagna with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, bake for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  6. Let rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For optimal moisture control, strain ricotta. Cook noodles less than al dente as they continue cooking in the oven. Resting is crucial for clean slices.

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