DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 375°
Cook pasta according to package instructions, rinse, and set aside. (Lay them separately on a cookie sheet)
In a heavy saucepan brown the ground beef and Italian sausage (remove from casing and break up with a fork) Mix in onion, red peppers, and garlic. Cook over medium heat until browned well, drain fat off.
Add pasta sauce, tomato paste and season to taste with all-purpose blend. Add Italian seasoning, cover, and simmer on med-low for 30 minutes. (For optimal flavor, cook sauce the day before)
OPTIONAL I add 1 tsp sugar
While sauce is simmering, in a mixing bowl combine 1 bag of the mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, Romano, and Parmesan with a beaten egg, spinach, and parsley
Add 1 c. meat sauce to the bottom of the baking dish, top with lasagna noodles, spoon on cheese mixture. Repeat. Finish with noodles topped with sauce and remaining mozzarella cheese.
Cover and bake for 40 minutes. Uncover and add additional cheese if desired and bake another 10 minutes until lightly golden brown and bubbly.
Allow resting 20 minutes before cutting.
I did have about a pint of sauce left. Put in the freezer bag for a quick lunch one day!
Tips:
Certainly! Here are some tips to help you make a delicious cheese lasagna with Italian sausage and beef:
1. Choose high-quality ingredients: Opt for lean ground beef and Italian sausage that are made from high-quality meat. This ensures better flavor and texture in the final dish.
2. Pre-cook the meat: Before layering the lasagna, it’s a good idea to cook the Italian sausage and beef separately. This helps in removing excess fat and ensures that the meat is fully cooked before baking.
3. Flavor the meat: Season the Italian sausage and beef with herbs and spices such as garlic, oregano, basil, or red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor. This adds depth to the overall taste of the lasagna.
4. Use a flavorful sauce: Prepare or choose a tasty tomato sauce to go with the meat. You can add extra herbs, garlic, and even a splash of red wine to enhance the sauce’s flavor.
5. Cheese selection: While mozzarella is a classic cheese choice for lasagna, you can also experiment with other types like Parmesan, ricotta, or a blend of cheeses. This adds richness and depth to the dish.
6. Layering technique: Start with a layer of sauce at the bottom of your baking dish, followed by a layer of lasagna noodles, then the meat mixture, and finally, a layer of cheese. Repeat the layers until you’ve used all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Don’t forget the seasoning: As you layer the lasagna, be sure to season each layer with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you desire. This ensures that every bite is flavorful.
8. Bake to perfection: Cover the lasagna with foil and bake at a moderate temperature (usually around 375°F or 190°C) for about 30-40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
9. Rest before serving: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This makes it easier to cut and serve, and it allows the flavors to meld together.
Remember to adjust the recipe and ingredients based on your personal preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy your homemade cheese lasagna with Italian sausage and beef!