The San Giorgio Classic Lasagna is the epitome of Italian comfort food. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey mozzarella layered between tender sheets of pasta. It’s a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavors that meld together beautifully after being baked to perfection. Whether it’s a family dinner, a gathering of friends, or simply a treat for yourself, this lasagna is sure to please. With its enticing aroma, bubbling cheese, and flavorful layers, it’s a recipe that’s both traditional and timeless, perfect for creating warm memories around the dinner table.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 San Giorgio Lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 32 ounces Ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 26 ounces pasta sauce (preferably marinara)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook 12 San Giorgio lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbled, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the pasta sauce with the meat mixture until combined.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well-blended.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 1/3 of the meat sauce across the bottom. Top with a layer of lasagna noodles (about 4 noodles per layer). Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles and sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat with another third of meat sauce, another layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, and another cup of mozzarella.
- For the final layer, top with the last set of noodles, remaining meat sauce, the rest of the mozzarella, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbling and golden on top.
- Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 46 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 1000 kcal per serving | Servings: 8
The Background and Heritage of Lasagna
Lasagna is one of the most cherished dishes in Italian cuisine, known for its multiple layers of pasta, cheese, and savory fillings. Originating from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, this dish has a rich and long-standing history that has evolved over centuries. Traditionally, lasagna was made with a simple mix of meat, cheese, and a homemade sauce called “ragù.” It was considered a special dish for festivities and family gatherings, bringing people together over its warm, comforting taste. The version we know today often combines a hearty tomato-based sauce, flavorful ground meat, and a trio of cheeses that elevate its taste and texture.
The San Giorgio Classic Lasagna captures all of the essence of traditional Italian lasagna but is simplified for the modern home cook. This recipe doesn’t stray too far from its Italian roots, keeping the core components of quality meat, rich sauce, and authentic pasta. The use of San Giorgio noodles gives the dish an added touch of authenticity, creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in every layer.
Why This Recipe is a Showstopper
- Balanced Flavors with Quality Ingredients: The San Giorgio Classic Lasagna is all about balancing bold flavors and fresh ingredients. The ground beef is cooked with onions and garlic to build the first layer of flavor, followed by the addition of a high-quality marinara sauce. This combination infuses the dish with an earthy, savory taste that complements the smooth and creamy ricotta cheese layer. To top it all off, a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses melt to create a golden, bubbling crust that’s irresistibly appetizing.
- Perfectly Layered Texture: One of the key elements that make this lasagna stand out is the layering process. With every bite, you experience a burst of textures – from the tender lasagna noodles and smooth ricotta mixture to the rich and meaty sauce. The layering also helps lock in moisture, ensuring that every slice is perfectly juicy without being overly saucy or dry. San Giorgio lasagna noodles are specifically crafted to be sturdy yet tender, making them the ideal base for stacking layers without falling apart.
- Easy to Prepare, Impressively Delicious: The recipe provides a step-by-step guide that’s easy to follow, even for a beginner cook. In under two hours, you can create a homemade lasagna that tastes like it’s straight out of a classic Italian kitchen. The cooking process is simple – from browning the meat to mixing the ricotta and assembling the layers – yet the result is a dish that looks and tastes as though it took hours to prepare. Perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or celebratory meal, this lasagna brings a touch of Italian authenticity to any occasion.
- Customizable to Your Taste: While the recipe is delectable as is, it also lends itself to easy customization. If you’d like to make it lighter, you can swap out ground beef for leaner meats like ground turkey or chicken. You can even make a vegetarian version by substituting the meat sauce with a vegetable-based marinara and adding layers of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added depth. Craving some spice? Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian sausage to the meat mixture. The possibilities are endless with this versatile dish.
Nutritional Benefits and Why It’s the Best Choice
- A Wholesome Meal in Every Slice: Lasagna is a well-balanced dish containing carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and vitamins in one satisfying plate. The ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which helps with muscle building and repair, while also being rich in essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12. The ricotta and mozzarella cheeses contribute calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health. The San Giorgio noodles provide the carbohydrates that supply energy to keep you going.
- Comfort Food with a Healthy Twist: This lasagna recipe has the flexibility to adapt to various dietary preferences while still retaining its comforting flavors. Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free noodles to make the dish healthier without compromising taste. Reducing the amount of cheese or using low-fat varieties can help lower the calorie content while keeping the lasagna flavorful and cheesy.
- Meal Prep-Friendly and Freezable: One of the great advantages of making lasagna is its ability to be prepared ahead of time. You can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it for a day before baking, making it a great choice for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep. Once baked, the lasagna freezes well and can be stored in individual portions, providing a quick and delicious meal that can be reheated whenever you need it.
Pairing Ideas: The Perfect Side Dishes for Lasagna
To truly complete your meal, consider pairing the San Giorgio Classic Lasagna with some traditional Italian sides. A fresh, crisp garden salad tossed with a light balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the lasagna. You can also serve it alongside a loaf of warm garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, enhances the tomato sauce’s flavors and makes for a classic Italian pairing.
For a lighter side, steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans work well to balance the richness of the lasagna. If you prefer a more substantial side, try a Caprese salad made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic reduction. The simplicity of the salad beautifully complements the robust taste of the lasagna.
Making the Most Out of Your Lasagna Experience
- Rest Before Serving: A crucial tip for serving lasagna is to let it rest for about 15 minutes after it’s baked. This allows the layers to firm up, making it easier to cut into clean slices. This resting time also helps the flavors meld together, ensuring every bite is packed with the full range of taste.
- Experiment with Herbs and Spices: To give your lasagna an aromatic lift, try adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano between the layers or sprinkling them on top just before serving. Freshly cracked black pepper or a touch of nutmeg can add depth to the ricotta cheese mixture, making it even more flavorful.
- Serve for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a celebratory meal, or a dish to share at a gathering, the San Giorgio Classic Lasagna is an all-around crowd-pleaser. Its rich taste, comforting texture, and beautiful presentation make it perfect for any occasion. The familiar aroma of bubbling marinara, melting cheese, and baked pasta creates an inviting atmosphere, filling your home with a sense of warmth and comfort.
Conclusion
The San Giorgio Classic Lasagna is more than just a recipe – it’s a culinary experience that brings together the love of family, the joy of comfort food, and the heart of Italian cuisine. From its layered textures and mouthwatering flavors to its customizable nature, this lasagna is the epitome of a classic dish done right. It’s a meal that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite, a dish that you’ll turn to for its ease, taste, and versatility. If you haven’t yet tried making lasagna from scratch, this San Giorgio recipe is the perfect place to start. It’s simple, accessible, and sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and be ready to savor a dish that tells the delicious story of Italian home cooking.
