Dive into Layers of Flavor!
Imagine the enticing aroma of Italian spices wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the richness of cheese and savory meats. That’s exactly what you get with The Godfather Sicilian Lasagna — an extraordinary twist on a classic dish! This lasagna combines ground beef, pork, and a luscious ricotta filling, draped in a hearty tomato sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. With its sumptuous layers and comforting flavors, this dish is simply unforgettable!
Why Make This Recipe
Why put in all that effort with complicated recipes when you can whip up this gem? Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Easy Cleanup: With just a few pots and a baking dish, you can save your sanity and the kitchen chaos for another day.
- Affordable Ingredients: Most of these staples hang out in the pantry or fridge, so you’re not dropping a fortune just to create culinary magic.
- Family-Friendly: This hearty dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or impressing friends at your next gathering. Plus, who can resist gooey cheese? 🍽️
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound lasagna noodles
- 32 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions
Let’s get cooking with these straightforward steps!
- Brown the Meats: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and pork. Drain any excess grease.
- Add Aromatics: Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they soften.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors develop.
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat.
- Mix the Ricotta Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, beaten eggs, and half a cup of Parmesan cheese.
- Preheat and Layer: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of meat sauce in a baking dish, followed by layers of noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and more meat sauce. Repeat layers, finishing with meat sauce and cheese on top.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let rest before serving!
How to Make The Godfather Sicilian Lasagna (Overview)
Picture this: first, you’re sautéing juicy meat with aromatic garlic and onion, creating a heavenly medley. Then, you’re simmering it all together with tomatoes, filling your home with an irresistible scent. Once the noodles are perfectly tender, layering all these delicious ingredients becomes a creative masterpiece of cheesy goodness. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference!
How to Serve The Godfather Sicilian Lasagna
Unveil your bubbling lasagna with a flourish! Serve it in generous slices, topped with fresh basil for a pop of color. Pair it with a crisp side salad to balance the richness or some garlic bread for a delightful crunch. Take in the aromas — that melty cheese and the sweet, savory sauce is a match made in heaven! 😍
How to Store The Godfather Sicilian Lasagna
This marvelous lasagna keeps well! You can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months if you want to plan ahead. For reheating, pop it in the oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick bite. Easy peasy!
Tips to Make The Godfather Sicilian Lasagna
- Prep Ahead: Assemble it the night before and let the flavors meld together in the fridge. Just bake it the next day!
- Cheese Swap: Try using a different cheese, like fontina or ricotta blended with herbs, for a unique twist.
- Noodle Option: No-boil lasagna noodles? Go for it! Just ensure they get enough moisture from your sauce.
Variation
Feeling creative? Try adding spinach or zucchini layers for a boost of nutrition. If you want to go vegan, swap the meat for lentils or mushrooms, and use cashew cream in place of ricotta. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it, cover tightly, and store in the fridge overnight.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! It freezes well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
What if I don’t have ground pork?
No worries! Just double the ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
Now, it’s time to whip up this rich and satisfying Godfather Sicilian Lasagna that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy! 🍝
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
The Godfather Sicilian Lasagna
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and pork. Drain any excess grease.
- Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they soften.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for at least 30 minutes.
- Boil the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, beaten eggs, and half a cup of Parmesan cheese.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a layer of meat sauce in a baking dish, followed by layers of noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and more meat sauce. Repeat layers, finishing with meat sauce and cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let rest before serving!