Easy Homemade Lasagna

Ingredients:

- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

- 2 teaspoons dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon dried basil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 12 lasagna noodles (no boil noodles work fine too)

- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese

- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 1 egg

- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Welcome to the world of homemade lasagna, where layers of rich flavors and cheesy goodness come together to create a comfort meal. If you're a beginner in the kitchen or just looking for a straightforward lasagna recipe, you're in the right place. Follow these simple steps and gather the basic ingredients to whip up a mouthwatering lasagna that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sauce:

- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.

- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are translucent.

- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Set aside.

2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:

- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. *(If you have no boil noodles skip this step)*

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix until well combined.

4. Assemble the Lasagna:

- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

- Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

- Place three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.

- Spread a third of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.

- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.

5. Bake:

- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.

6. Serve:

- Allow the lasagna to cool for a few minutes before slicing.

- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Yay you! You've just created a delicious homemade lasagna that's perfect for newbies and vets in the kitchen and sure to impress.