Easy Cheesy Lasagna Recipe

Cook Time: 80 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. The original recipe (1X) yields 10 servings.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
• 1 cup sliced black olives
• cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 pinch dry basil
• 2 (14 ounce) jars marinara sauce
• 1 (16 ounce) package lasagna noodles
• 8 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded

Directions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add the sliced black olives and warm water to the skillet. Season with minced garlic, oregano, onion flakes, garlic powder, black pepper, sage, and basil. Stir well to combine.
3. Let the mixture simmer, stirring frequently, for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and remove the skillet from the heat.
5. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).
6. Spread a layer of the meat sauce mixture at the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
7. Place a layer of dry lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a thin layer of ricotta cheese over the noodles, then sprinkle with some of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Top with another layer of the meat sauce mixture. Repeat the layering process, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.
9. Reserve about cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese for topping the lasagna later.
10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 30 minutes, check the lasagna. It is ready when easily pierced with a knife.
11. Sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese over the lasagna and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 589
• Fat: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 38g

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 589 (29% of daily value)
• Total Fat: 36g (46% of daily value)
• Saturated Fat: 15g (76% of daily value)
• Cholesterol: 111mg (37% of daily value)
• Sodium: 1190mg (52% of daily value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 28g (10% of daily value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (12% of daily value)
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 38g (76% of daily value)
• Vitamin C: 3mg (3% of daily value)
• Calcium: 367mg (28% of daily value)
• Iron: 4mg (23% of daily value)
• Potassium: 723mg (15% of daily value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Lasagna is one of the most iconic dishes in Italian cuisine, known for its hearty layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and melty cheese. This Easy Cheesy Lasagna recipe brings the traditional dish to your table with a minimal amount of fuss. While it's a simple take on lasagna, it still packs all the rich flavors we love about this classic dish. But where did lasagna come from? And how has it evolved over the years?

History of Lasagna

Lasagna traces its origins back to Ancient Greece. The word "lasagna" comes from the Greek "Laganon," a dish made of layers of pasta and sauce. However, it was the Romans who refined this dish by incorporating more complex ingredients like cheese and meat. Over time, lasagna evolved in Italy, with the most famous variations coming from regions like Emilia-Romagna and Naples.

Regional Variations

Different regions in Italy have their own take on lasagna. In the North, particularly in Bologna, the classic Lasagna alla Bolognese is made with a rich rag (meat sauce), bchamel sauce, and fresh egg pasta. Meanwhile, in Naples, the lasagna is often layered with ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and a tomato-based sauce. In the U.S., lasagna recipes have been adapted, and it's common to see variations with ingredients like sausage, olives, and even spinach, as in this Easy Cheesy Lasagna recipe.

How This Lasagna Differs from Others

What makes this version of lasagna stand out is its use of dry noodles without pre-boiling, which cuts down on prep time and results in a firmer texture. Additionally, this recipe incorporates black olives for a subtle briny kick and allows for a more casual, homey experience compared to the refined, delicate lasagna found in Italian fine dining. It is the perfect comfort food, and its straightforward ingredients and assembly make it ideal for both beginners and seasoned home cooks.

Where Lasagna is Served

Lasagna is a popular dish in many parts of the world, particularly in Italy, the United States, and other countries with strong Italian influences. In Italy, it is often served at family gatherings and special occasions like Christmas and Easter. In the U.S., lasagna is commonly featured in family dinners, potlucks, and is a favorite at Italian-American restaurants. Its versatility also means that it is frequently found on the menu of Italian restaurants worldwide, either as a main course or as part of a larger meal.

Interesting Facts About Lasagna

• The oldest known lasagna recipe dates back to the 14th century and was written in a manuscript from the Italian city of Bologna.
• Lasagna was originally a luxury dish, reserved for special occasions. Today, it is a beloved comfort food that is easy to prepare for any weeknight dinner.
• In Italy, there is a national day dedicated to lasagnaLasagna Day is celebrated every year on July 29th!
• While lasagna is traditionally made with a meat sauce, vegetarian versions are also very popular. Some of the most common alternatives include spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant as the primary filling.

This Easy Cheesy Lasagna recipe reflects the timeless appeal of lasagna. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner or as a centerpiece for a family gathering, it's a dish that brings people together with its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. The simplicity of this recipe also allows for plenty of customization, so you can make it your own by experimenting with different cheeses, meats, and vegetables.

FAQ about Easy Cheesy Lasagna Recipe

Comments