Ultimate Lasagna Ricotta Cheese Recipe for a Perfect Family Dinner
#### Lasagna Ricotta Cheese RecipeIf you're looking for a comforting, hearty dish that will please the entire family, look no further than this ultimate las……
#### Lasagna Ricotta Cheese Recipe
If you're looking for a comforting, hearty dish that will please the entire family, look no further than this ultimate lasagna ricotta cheese recipe. This classic Italian dish combines layers of rich pasta, creamy ricotta cheese, savory meat sauce, and gooey mozzarella, creating a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and delicious.
#### Ingredients
To make this lasagna ricotta cheese recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:
- **Lasagna Noodles**: 12-15 sheets of no-boil lasagna noodles for convenience.
- **Ricotta Cheese**: 15 ounces of ricotta cheese, which adds creaminess and richness.
- **Mozzarella Cheese**: 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese for that gooey, melty texture.
- **Parmesan Cheese**: 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
- **Ground Meat**: 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage, cooked and drained.
- **Marinara Sauce**: 4 cups of your favorite marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought.
- **Egg**: 1 large egg to bind the ricotta mixture.
- **Herbs and Spices**: Fresh basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
#### Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the Meat Sauce**: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain any excess fat and add the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
3. **Mix the Ricotta Filling**: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and a handful of chopped fresh basil. Mix until well combined.
4. **Assemble the Lasagna**: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Next, spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella. Top with a final layer of noodles, remaining meat sauce, mozzarella, and the rest of the Parmesan cheese.
5. **Bake**: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. **Let it Rest**: Once out of the oven, let the lasagna rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers set and make serving easier.
#### Serving Suggestions
This lasagna ricotta cheese recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
#### Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
#### Conclusion
This ultimate lasagna ricotta cheese recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its layers of flavor and creamy texture, it’s a dish that brings everyone together at the dinner table. Whether you're preparing a meal for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this lasagna is a guaranteed hit! Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!