We’ve always loved how lasagna brings people together with its layers of rich flavors and comforting warmth. Our Lasagna San Giorgio recipe draws from classic Italian roots, blending hearty meats, fresh veggies, and gooey cheese for a dish that’s both satisfying and simple to make at home.
What sets this version apart is its nod to timeless traditions, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. We’re excited to share our take on this crowd-pleaser, so you can create memorable meals with ease.
Ingredients
To craft our mouthwatering Lasagna San Giorgio recipe, we start by assembling high-quality ingredients that blend classic Italian flavors into a hearty, comforting dish. Below, we’ve organized them in the order they’re typically used, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for accuracy and ease.
For the Meat Sauce
- Ground beef: 1 pound (lean, 85% lean or higher), browned and drained to remove excess fat for a lighter sauce
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped, for building a flavorful base
- Garlic cloves: 4, minced, to add a pungent, aromatic depth
- Canned crushed tomatoes: 28 ounces, for a rich, tangy sauce foundation
- Tomato paste: 6 ounces, to thicken and intensify the sauce
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon, for an earthy, herbal note
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon, to infuse fresh, vibrant flavors
For the Cheese Layer
- Ricotta cheese: 15 ounces (whole milk for creaminess), mixed with egg for binding
- Large egg: 1, beaten, to help the cheese layer hold together during baking
- Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, shredded, for that irresistible gooey melt
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated, to provide a sharp, nutty contrast
For Assembly
- Lasagna noodles: 12 sheets (oven-ready or boiled al dente), to form the structured layers
- Fresh spinach: 2 cups, chopped, for a nutritious, vibrant green addition
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, for seasoning each layer effectively
This selection ensures our Lasagna San Giorgio delivers layers of savory meats, melted cheeses, and aromatic herbs that come together seamlessly in the subsequent steps.
Tools and Equipment
Now that we’ve gathered our high-quality ingredients for Lasagna San Giorgio, let’s equip ourselves with the right tools and equipment to ensure a seamless preparation and baking process. Having the proper items on hand allows us to layer flavors effortlessly and achieve that perfect, golden-baked finish.
To make this recipe straightforward and efficient, we recommend the following essential tools. We’ve organized them by their primary use in the recipe for easy reference:
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch rectangular baking dish or a dedicated lasagna pan is crucial for assembling and baking our lasagna. Opt for one that’s at least 2 inches deep to accommodate the layers without overflow.
- Large Pot: Use a large stockpot (at least 8 quarts) for boiling the lasagna noodles. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, making it easier to handle multiple noodles at once.
- Skillet or Saucepan: A 10- to 12-inch skillet is ideal for preparing the meat sauce. Its wide base allows for even browning of ground beef and onions, enhancing the savory flavors we love in this classic dish.
- Mixing Bowls: Have two medium mixing bowls ready—one for combining the ricotta cheese mixture and another for any additional prep. This keeps our workstation organized and prevents cross-contamination of ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A heat-resistant wooden spoon or silicone spatula is essential for stirring the sauce and mixing ingredients. It helps us avoid scratching our cookware while ensuring thorough blending.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board are necessary for chopping onions, garlic, and any fresh vegetables. This prep step sets the foundation for the aromatic base of our lasagna.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success, so use a set of dry measuring cups and measuring spoons for ingredients like herbs and spices.
- Colander: A large colander is vital for draining boiled noodles and any excess fat from the meat, ensuring our layers remain firm and not watery.
For optimal results, we suggest checking that your oven is calibrated correctly—most home ovens should be set to 375°F (190°C) for baking. With these tools in place, we’re fully prepared to transition smoothly from ingredient prep to the cooking steps ahead.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through the steps to prepare our flavorful Lasagna San Giorgio. We will guide you with precise, easy-to-follow instructions to achieve a perfectly layered, comforting dish.
Prepare Ingredients
First, we start by prepping our ingredients to ensure everything is ready for assembly. Begin with the vegetables: Finely chop 1 medium onion and 3 cloves of garlic using a sharp knife on a cutting board, aiming for even pieces that will release their aromatic flavors seamlessly into the sauce.
Next, for the cheese mixture, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese with 1 large egg in a mixing bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy, then fold in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This blend will create a gooey, irresistible layer that melts beautifully.
Meanwhile, bring a large stockpot of salted water to a boil and cook 12 lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente—typically 8-10 minutes. Drain them in a colander and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking, ensuring they remain tender yet firm for layering.
Finally, rinse and pat dry 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves, and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance their earthy taste.
Make the Sauce
With our ingredients prepped, we now focus on creating a rich, hearty meat sauce that forms the heart of our Lasagna San Giorgio. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until it’s no longer pink and has a savory, caramelized edge.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they soften and release a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen. Then, stir in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to a robust, flavorful consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste, allowing the herbs and tomatoes to meld into a tangy, aromatic base that promises to delight with every bite.
Assemble the Lasagna
It’s time to build the layers of our Lasagna San Giorgio, creating a symphony of textures and flavors in our 9×13-inch baking dish. Start by spreading 1 cup of the meat sauce evenly across the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking and infuse the base with moisture.
Layer 4 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta cheese mixture, spreading it smoothly for even coverage. Add a layer of fresh spinach leaves and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat these layers once more: sauce, noodles, cheese mixture, spinach, and mozzarella.
For the final layer, arrange the remaining 4 noodles, spread the rest of the meat sauce over them, and generously top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This assembly ensures a gooey, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender layers beneath, promising a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Bake the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for optimal results, as this temperature allows the flavors to meld while achieving a bubbly, golden finish. Place the assembled lasagna in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned, and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
For an extra-crispy top, we recommend broiling on high for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep a close eye to avoid burning. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving, allowing the layers to set and making it easier to slice into warm, savory portions that release an irresistible aroma.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Lasagna San Giorgio recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules—we can prepare it in advance to save time while letting the flavors deepen and meld. Whether you’re planning a family gathering or a weeknight meal, these steps ensure your lasagna remains fresh, delicious, and ready to bake when needed.
Preparing Components Ahead of Time
To get a head start, we focus on prepping the key elements like the meat sauce and cheese mixture. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Make the meat sauce up to 2 days in advance: Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, then add chopped onions, garlic, canned crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until thickened. Once cooled, transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate it. This allows the aromatic herbs and savory meats to develop even richer flavors over time.
- Prepare the cheese mixture the day before: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with an egg, then stir in grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or store in a sealed container in the fridge. The cheeses will integrate smoothly, creating a creamy layer that enhances the lasagna’s gooey texture.
- Cook the lasagna noodles ahead: Boil the noodles according to package instructions, then drain and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Lay them flat on a baking sheet, cover with a damp paper towel, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This step keeps the noodles pliable and ready for assembly without sogginess.
Assembling and Storing the Full Lasagna
For maximum convenience, we can assemble the entire Lasagna San Giorgio ahead of time and store it before baking:
- Layer the ingredients in a baking dish: Start with a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by noodles, the cheese mixture, fresh spinach, and more sauce. Repeat the layers as outlined in our step-by-step instructions, ending with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover and refrigerate: Once assembled, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This resting period lets the ingredients settle, ensuring a more cohesive and flavorful bake.
- Freezing for longer storage: If you want to prepare further in advance, assemble the lasagna without baking, wrap it securely in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Freezing preserves the fresh vegetables and hearty meats, maintaining that comforting, bubbly finish when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Reheating and Baking Tips
When it’s time to serve, our Lasagna San Giorgio reheats effortlessly for a stress-free meal:
- From the refrigerator: Remove the cover, let the dish sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes until hot and bubbly. The aromas of melted cheese and herbs will fill your kitchen, making it feel like a fresh-cooked delight.
- From the freezer: Thaw the lasagna overnight in the refrigerator, then follow the baking instructions above. For an extra-crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end—just watch closely to avoid burning.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Cover tightly to prevent drying; bake directly from fridge. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Thaw fully before baking; wrap in multiple layers for protection. |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing the Lasagna San Giorgio recipe with you
It’s a timeless favorite that brings families together
Try it for your next gathering and enjoy the satisfaction
of creating something deliciously memorable in your kitchen
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lasagna San Giorgio?
Lasagna San Giorgio is a classic Italian-inspired dish that combines hearty meats, fresh vegetables, and gooey cheeses for a comforting meal. This recipe highlights rich flavors like ground beef, tomatoes, ricotta, mozzarella, and herbs, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s designed to be easy to prepare at home, bringing people together with its timeless appeal.
What ingredients are needed for Lasagna San Giorgio?
The recipe requires ingredients for the meat sauce (ground beef, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil), cheese layer (ricotta mixed with egg, mozzarella, and Parmesan), and assembly (lasagna noodles, fresh spinach, salt, and pepper). These high-quality items create layers of savory, aromatic flavors for a satisfying dish.
What tools and equipment are essential for making Lasagna San Giorgio?
You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish, large stockpot for boiling noodles, skillet for the meat sauce, mixing bowls, wooden spoon, knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, and a colander. Ensure your oven is set to 375°F (190°C) for even baking, making preparation smooth and efficient.
How do I prepare Lasagna San Giorgio step by step?
Start by prepping ingredients: chop onions and garlic, mix cheese, and cook noodles. Brown ground beef in a skillet, add aromatics and tomatoes for the sauce. Layer sauce, noodles, cheese mixture, and spinach in a baking dish. Bake at 375°F for about 45 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it rest before serving for easier slicing.
Can I make Lasagna San Giorgio ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the meat sauce and cheese mixture in advance, or cook noodles to keep them pliable. Assemble the full lasagna and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months. This allows flavors to deepen, making it ideal for busy schedules while maintaining its comforting taste.
How should I store and reheat Lasagna San Giorgio?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake refrigerated lasagna at 375°F until heated through, or thaw frozen lasagna overnight and bake. Cover with foil to prevent drying, ensuring it remains delicious and easy to enjoy.