We’ve always adored lasagna, that hearty Italian staple originating from the sun-kissed kitchens of Italy where layers of pasta, sauce and cheese first stole hearts. Our Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio elevates this classic with premium noodles that promise an authentic, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
In this version we’ll guide you through simple steps to create a dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Join us as we craft a comforting meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
In our Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio, we prioritize high-quality, authentic ingredients to capture the essence of this classic Italian dish. Let’s break down the key components, ordered as they are used in the preparation process. We focus on precise measurements and prep notes to ensure your lasagna turns out perfectly layered and flavorful.
Noodle Layer
- 12 San Giorgio lasagna noodles (uncooked; boil according to package instructions for al dente texture to form the base layers)
Meat Sauce Components
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean; brown it first for the sauce to add rich, savory depth)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped; sauté for aroma and sweetness)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced; add after onion for a punch of flavor without burning)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes (use a high-quality brand for a robust, tangy base)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (stir in for thickness and intensified umami)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (crushed; incorporate for herbaceous notes that evoke traditional Italian seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (torn; blend with oregano for fresh, aromatic balance)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (kosher variety; season to enhance the sauce’s natural flavors)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground; add for a subtle kick)
Cheese and Binding Layers
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk; use as a creamy binder between layers for smooth texture)
- 1 large egg (beaten; mix into ricotta for added cohesion and richness)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (freshly grated; sprinkle generously for gooey, melted appeal)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (aged; top layers with it for a nutty, crispy finish)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped; optional garnish stirred into ricotta for a burst of color and freshness)
This selection ensures our recipe delivers the comforting, hearty taste you expect from Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio, with San Giorgio noodles providing that authentic, high-quality foundation.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio with its layers of authentic San Giorgio lasagna noodles, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheeses, we need the right equipment for seamless assembly and baking. This ensures even cooking and that perfect, golden-brown finish that makes every bite comforting and irresistible.
We recommend gathering these essential items before starting:
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: A sturdy, oven-safe dish is crucial for layering and baking the lasagna. We prefer one that’s at least 2 inches deep to accommodate the multiple layers without overflow.
- Large Pot: Ideal for boiling the San Giorgio lasagna noodles to al dente perfection. Choose one with a capacity of at least 8 quarts to handle the noodles without crowding.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A 12-inch non-stick skillet works best for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic, ensuring our meat sauce develops rich flavors evenly.
- Mixing Bowls: Use a set of medium and large bowls—one for combining ricotta, egg, and herbs, and another for mixing sauce ingredients—to keep our preparation organized and mess-free.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Essential for stirring the sauce and layering ingredients. Opt for a heat-resistant one to handle both stovetop and oven tasks without risk.
- Colander: This helps drain the boiled San Giorgio lasagna noodles quickly, preventing sogginess and maintaining the dish’s hearty texture.
- Aluminum Foil: Useful for covering the baking dish during the initial bake to lock in moisture, then removed for a crispy top.
By having these tools ready, we guarantee that our Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio comes out flawlessly every time, with layers that are tender yet structured.
Directions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential equipment, let’s guide you through the straightforward steps to prepare our mouthwatering Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio. These instructions ensure a perfectly layered dish with tender noodles, rich sauce, and creamy cheese for an authentic Italian experience.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we organize and prep our ingredients for efficiency. Begin by boiling 8 ounces of San Giorgio lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted water according to package directions—typically 8-10 minutes until al dente—then drain them in a colander and set aside to prevent sticking. Next, finely chop 1 medium onion and 3 garlic cloves to release their fresh aroma. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound ground beef with a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning. Measure out 28 ounces crushed tomatoes, 15 ounces ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, 2 cups shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan to have everything ready at hand. This preparation sets the stage for seamless assembly and enhances the hearty flavors of our lasagna.
Make the Meat Sauce
We begin crafting the heart of our lasagna by making a robust meat sauce that infuses bold flavors. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat then add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant with a savory scent. Add the seasoned ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and no pink remains, allowing the rich juices to meld. Stir in the crushed tomatoes along with 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1/2 teaspoon salt, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and develops a deep, irresistible aroma that promises comforting satisfaction.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
To create a creamy, binding layer that elevates our lasagna’s texture, we mix the cheese components with precision. In a large mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces ricotta cheese with 1 large egg, stirring vigorously until smooth and well-blended for a silky consistency. Fold in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan and 1 teaspoon dried parsley to add a nutty tang that complements the other flavors. This simple mixture, now rich and velvety, will melt beautifully during baking, ensuring each bite delivers a luscious, gooey experience that ties the dish together.
Assemble the Lasagna
With our components ready, we layer the lasagna in a 9×13-inch baking dish for a visually appealing and structurally sound result. Start by spreading 1 cup of the meat sauce evenly across the bottom to create a flavorful base. Lay 4-5 cooked San Giorgio lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly to form a sturdy foundation. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by 1 cup shredded mozzarella and another 1 cup meat sauce. Repeat the layers once more, ending with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce and 1 cup shredded mozzarella sprinkled on top for a golden, bubbly finish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, pressing gently to secure the layers and lock in moisture, resulting in tender, perfectly melded slices.
Bake the Lasagna
Finally, we bake our assembled lasagna to achieve a hot, golden dish with irresistible aromas. Preheat the oven to 375°F and place the covered baking dish inside, baking for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to fuse and the cheese to begin melting. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is bubbly and lightly browned, filling the kitchen with the enticing scent of herbs and cheese. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure clean, cohesive portions that showcase the comforting, hearty essence of our San Giorgio recipe.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio is its flexibility for busy schedules. We can prepare this comforting dish in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and making it easier to serve a hot, hearty meal without last-minute hassle. Below, we outline the steps to make it ahead while preserving that authentic, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Preparing Components in Advance
To get started, we recommend prepping the key elements separately for optimal freshness:
- Meat sauce: Cook the sauce as described in the previous steps, then let it cool completely. This step ensures the rich, savory blend of ground beef, onions, garlic, and herbs intensifies.
- Cheese mixture: Combine the ricotta, egg, mozzarella, and Parmesan in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate to keep the creamy consistency intact, ready for effortless assembly.
- San Giorgio lasagna noodles: Boil the noodles until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss gently with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Assembling and Storing the Lasagna
Once the components are ready, we can assemble the full lasagna ahead of time:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the ingredients as outlined earlier: start with a thin layer of meat sauce, add the noodles, cheese mixture, and repeat.
- After assembling, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and flavors.
- For refrigeration, store the assembled lasagna in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This allows the layers to settle, enhancing the comforting aroma when baked.
- For freezing, wrap the dish in an extra layer of plastic wrap or freezer-safe material. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Thaw in the fridge if needed, then bake at 375°F for 45-50 minutes. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Defrost overnight in the fridge before baking to ensure even heating and that golden, bubbly top. |
Baking from Make-Ahead
When you’re ready to enjoy, we simply uncover the lasagna and bake as per the original instructions, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from the fridge. This method delivers the same irresistible, layered goodness with minimal effort, filling your home with the scent of melted cheese and herbs.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring the Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio and how it brings timeless comfort to your table. It’s more than a meal—it’s a way to create lasting memories with family and friends.
Our tips ensure you enjoy every bite with ease and confidence. Give it a try and see why this dish stands out in our kitchen favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio?
The Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio is a classic Italian dish enhanced with high-quality San Giorgio noodles for an authentic taste. It features layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese, perfect for family meals or gatherings. This recipe simplifies preparation while delivering comforting, hearty flavors rooted in tradition.
What are the key ingredients for Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio?
Key ingredients include San Giorgio lasagna noodles, ground beef, onions, garlic, crushed tomatoes, herbs for the sauce, and a cheese mixture of ricotta, egg, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Using high-quality components ensures a flavorful, authentic dish that balances savory and creamy elements for the best results.
What equipment is needed for Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio?
You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish, a large pot for boiling noodles, a skillet for browning meat, mixing bowls, a wooden spoon or spatula, a colander for draining, and aluminum foil for baking. This setup ensures easy assembly and even cooking for a perfectly layered lasagna.
How do I prepare Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio?
Start by boiling San Giorgio noodles, making a meat sauce with ground beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, and mixing ricotta with egg. Layer noodles, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish, then bake at 375°F for 45-50 minutes until golden. Let it rest before slicing for clean portions.
Can I make Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the meat sauce, cheese mixture, and noodles in advance. Assemble the lasagna and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it ideal for busy schedules, allowing you to bake fresh when needed for maximum flavor and convenience.
How should I store and reheat make-ahead Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio?
Refrigerate assembled lasagna for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw frozen lasagna overnight in the fridge, then bake at 375°F covered for 30 minutes and uncovered for 15-20 minutes until bubbly. Always let it rest before serving for the best texture.
What tips ensure the best results with Lasagna Recipe San Giorgio?
Use high-quality ingredients like San Giorgio noodles for authenticity. Layer evenly for balanced flavors, cover with foil while baking to prevent drying, and let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes post-bake for easier slicing. Experiment with herbs for a personal touch while keeping the dish hearty and comforting.