- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or boiled according to package instructions)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
2. Make the Meat Sauce
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking them apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Prepare the Cheese Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
4. Assemble the Lasagna
- Spread 1 cup of meat sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce (about 3–4 noodles per layer).
- Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by 1 cup of meat sauce and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Finish with a final layer of noodles on top.
- Spread the remaining meat sauce over the top layer of noodles and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (lightly greased to prevent sticking) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra browning (watch closely to avoid burning).
6. Rest and Serve
- Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
- Enjoy every bite of this cheesy, hearty, and indulgent Maggiano's Lasagna!
- Perfect as a standalone main course or paired with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and high-quality ground beef and sausage make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Switch Proteins: Substitute ground beef or sausage with turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives for variety.
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms into the meat sauce for extra nutrition and color.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This Maggiano's Lasagna combines the rich, savory goodness of seasoned ground beef and Italian sausage, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy cheese into a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese ensure a balance of textures and flavors, while the slow simmering of the meat sauce adds depth. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity without requiring advanced cooking skills.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something hearty and comforting, looking for a way to feed a crowd, or simply want to enjoy a homemade treat, this Maggiano's Lasagna is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and customizable options make it a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its versatility means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this lasagna might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨