Maggiano’s Lasagna Recipe

The aroma of rich, bubbling cheese and savory meat wafts through the kitchen as you layer each ingredient in a glorious stack of comfort. This Maggiano’s Lasagna Recipe is a beloved classic that takes about 1 hour to prepare and cook, creating a dish that’s hearty, cheesy, and downright satisfying. Perfectly melding flavors make this recipe a hit for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves Italian cuisine or seeks a crowd-pleasing dish to share. It’s perfect for celebratory dinners or casual weeknight meals. You can make it ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it, allowing for easy reheating anytime you crave a taste of Italy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage creates an irresistible depth of flavor.
• Layers of creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella offer a delightful texture in every bite.
• The homemade sauce simmers to perfection, intensifying the taste and aroma.
• This dish is ideal for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious lasagna experience:

For the Meat Sauce

• 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 Ricotta Mixture

• 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

Consider adding crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey can replace ground beef.
• Cottage cheese can substitute ricotta.
• Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried.
• Gluten-free noodles are available for a gluten-free version.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your lasagna masterpiece.

Brown the meats

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage. This will create a flavorful base for the sauce.

Sauté the vegetables

Add onions and garlic; sauté until softened. The aroma will enhance the depth of the sauce.

Simmer the sauce

Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, sugar, and seasonings. Simmer for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Mix the ricotta

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, black pepper, and parsley. This creamy mixture will provide delicious layers in your lasagna.

Cook the noodles

Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente; drain. This prevents the noodles from becoming too mushy when baked.

Layer the ingredients

In a baking dish, layer meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese three times, finishing with sauce and cheese on top. This ensures a beautiful and tasty layering.

Bake the lasagna

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes; uncover and bake an additional 25 minutes until bubbly. The cheese should be perfectly melted and golden.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, it’s freezer-friendly for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave on high or bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh herbs where possible to elevate flavor.
• Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing for neater pieces.
• Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
• Ensure noodles are slightly undercooked for perfect texture after baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad for a light accompaniment.
• Pair with garlic bread for a traditional Italian experience.
• Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a delightful dinner.