Maggiano’s Lasagna is a hearty Italian dish that features layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese—all baked to perfection. This recipe combines ground beef and Italian sausage for a robust and savory flavor. The sauce, enriched with crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a mélange of herbs, simmers to develop a deep, delicious taste. Ricotta cheese adds a creamy element, while mozzarella and Parmesan contribute to the dish’s cheesy allure. Presented as a masterpiece of layers, this lasagna embodies comfort and tradition. It’s a dish that invites family and friends to indulge, savoring each flavorful layer bite by bite.
Ingredients for Maggiano’s Lasagna Recipe
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Cheese Filling:
- 26 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Lasagna Assembly:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 16 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground turkey can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian sausage offers a meatless option without sacrificing flavor.
- Low-fat ricotta can be substituted to reduce the calorie content.
- Gluten-free noodles accommodate those with gluten allergies.
How to Make Maggiano’s Lasagna Recipe Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Begin by cooking the ground beef and Italian sausage together in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently, breaking up any large chunks. Once the meat is browned and cooked through, drain excess fat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic.
At this stage, incorporate the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce into the meat mixture. Stir in half a cup of water and blend the ingredients thoroughly. Sprinkle in the sugar, dried basil leaves, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Cover the skillet and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing all flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
While the sauce simmers, shift your focus to the cheese filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, one beaten egg, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley. Stir well until you achieve a smooth, creamy blend. The egg acts as a binder, ensuring that the filling remains intact during baking.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the lasagna noodles following the package instructions, typically about 8 to 10 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean surface or baking sheet, preventing them from sticking together as you prepare to assemble the lasagna.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce over the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a portion of the ricotta cheese mixture. Add a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers, meat sauce, noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella, until all ingredients have been used. Finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly browned. Allow the lasagna to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing to serve, ensuring neat, delicious layers.
How to Serve Maggiano’s Lasagna Recipe
Best Ways to Serve Maggiano’s Lasagna Recipe
Maggiano’s Lasagna is best enjoyed hot, fresh out of the oven. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the lasagna into squares for even servings. A spatula can help lift each piece from the dish, keeping your meticulously assembled layers intact and allowing the cheesy top to shine.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair this lasagna with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors of the dish. A side of garlic bread offers a delightful and crunchy accompaniment. For wine lovers, a robust red such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the depth of flavors in the lasagna.
How to Store Maggiano’s Lasagna Recipe
Proper Storage Methods
Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing leftovers. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the lasagna for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If using a microwave, heat individual servings on a microwave-safe plate, covering with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture.
For freezing, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Maggiano’s Lasagna Recipe
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the noodles, as they should still have a slight bite before baking. It’s important to drain excess fat from the meat to prevent a greasy sauce. Also, don’t skip letting the lasagna rest before serving—it helps the layers set, resulting in cleaner slices.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of red wine during the simmering phase. Fresh basil leaves can substitute dried basil for a fresher taste. Adding crushed red pepper flakes can introduce a hint of heat, if desired.
Variation of Maggiano’s Lasagna Recipe
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
Experiment by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini between the layers for extra nutrients. A béchamel sauce could replace some of the meat sauce layers for an authentic Italian twist.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
For a vegetarian version, replace meat with plant-based alternatives or a medley of vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, and carrots. Consider using dairy-free cheese options for those adhering to a vegan diet.
FAQs
What Can I Do if the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?
If your lasagna appears too watery, it could be from undrained noodles or excessive liquid in your sauce. Ensure ingredients are properly drained and sauces are thickened during cooking.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, assemble the lasagna up to the baking step. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before, then proceed with baking as instructed.
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?
For cheese substitutes, use cottage cheese instead of ricotta or a blend of different cheeses like provolone or Asiago for unique flavors. Beef can be swapped with turkey, lamb, or even bison for a distinct taste preference.
