We absolutely love how the San Giorgio Lasagna Box Recipe captures the heart of Italian-American comfort food right in your kitchen. Drawing from timeless traditions this dish layers tender pasta with rich sauces and melted cheeses for a meal that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
As food enthusiasts we’ve perfected this classic using San Giorgio’s reliable noodles to deliver bold flavors everyone craves. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in so let’s dive into what makes it a go-to favorite.
Ingredients
As we dive into crafting our San Giorgio Lasagna Box Recipe, we focus on selecting high-quality ingredients that build its signature layers of tender pasta, rich sauces, and melted cheeses. Below, we list them in the order they are typically used, from base components to toppings, with prep specifics for accuracy.
- San Giorgio Lasagna Noodles: 1 box (12 ounces) – Boil until al dente (about 8-10 minutes), then drain and set aside for layering.
- Ground Beef: 1 pound – Brown in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped – Sauté with the ground beef for added flavor depth.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced – Add to the skillet after onions for an aromatic base.
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 can (28 ounces) – Stir into the meat mixture for a hearty sauce.
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons – Mix in to thicken the sauce and intensify the tomato flavor.
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon – Sprinkle into the sauce for an authentic Italian herb note.
- Salt and Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper – Season the sauce to taste.
- Ricotta Cheese: 2 cups – Use full-fat for creaminess; blend with an egg if desired for binding.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded – Reserve half for topping the layers to achieve that perfect melt.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated – Layer for a nutty, sharp contrast.
- Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, chopped – Add fresh leaves between layers or as a garnish for vibrant flavor.
- Egg: 1 large – Beat into the ricotta mixture to help it hold together during baking.
Required Tools and Equipment
To bring our San Giorgio Lasagna Box Recipe to life, we need the right tools and equipment to ensure smooth preparation and perfect results. Building on our list of high-quality ingredients, selecting the appropriate items helps us layer flavors effortlessly and achieve that golden, bubbly finish.
Here’s a curated list of essential tools, organized by their primary use in the recipe:
- Large Stockpot: For boiling the San Giorgio Lasagna Noodles to al dente perfection – aim for an 8-quart size to accommodate the noodles without crowding.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A 12-inch non-stick or cast-iron option for browning ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic, ensuring even heat distribution for flavorful sauces.
- Baking Dish: Opt for a 9×13-inch rectangular lasagna pan made of glass or metal, which provides the ideal depth for layering noodles, sauces, and cheeses without overflow.
- Mixing Bowls: At least two sizes – a large one for combining ricotta cheese, egg, and herbs, and a medium one for mixing sauces – to keep our ingredients organized and mess-free.
- Colander: Essential for draining boiled noodles quickly, preventing sogginess and maintaining the dish’s signature texture.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for stirring and layering, as these tools won’t scratch non-stick surfaces while handling hot mixtures.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp 8-inch knife paired with a sturdy board for chopping onions, garlic, and fresh basil with precision and safety.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate sets for measuring ingredients like crushed tomatoes and spices, guaranteeing the balanced flavors we love in our lasagna.
- Oven: A standard home oven preheated to 375°F, with a reliable timer to bake the lasagna evenly until it’s bubbling and golden.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition seamlessly from prepping ingredients to assembling and baking our hearty San Giorgio Lasagna.
Instructions
We guide you through crafting our San Giorgio Lasagna with simple, precise steps that build on the high-quality ingredients and tools we’ve outlined. Let’s turn those fresh components into a layered masterpiece of Italian-American comfort food.
Prep
First, we prepare the key elements to ensure our San Giorgio Lasagna achieves its signature tender layers and rich flavors. Begin by boiling 12 San Giorgio Lasagna Noodles in a large stockpot of salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente; drain them in a colander and rinse under cool water to prevent sticking.
Next, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown 1 pound ground beef with 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves for 5-7 minutes until the meat is no longer pink and the vegetables are soft and aromatic. Stir in 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper; simmer the mixture for 15 minutes to develop a hearty, savory sauce that fills the kitchen with irresistible Italian herbs.
In a separate mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces ricotta cheese, 1 beaten egg, ¼ cup chopped fresh basil, and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; gently mix until smooth and creamy for a luscious filling that promises melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Assemble
We assemble our San Giorgio Lasagna in a 9×13-inch baking dish to create those iconic, flavorful layers. Start by spreading 1 cup of the prepared meat sauce evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Layer 4 cooked San Giorgio Lasagna Noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, and another 1 cup meat sauce; repeat this process for a second layer to build depth and ensure every bite bursts with cheesy, saucy harmony.
Top with the remaining 4 noodles, the rest of the meat sauce, and a generous 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese sprinkled over the top; this final layer will form a golden, bubbly crust that locks in the dish’s comforting essence.
Bake
Finally, we bake our San Giorgio Lasagna to perfection in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top, releasing a warm, inviting aroma that signals it’s ready to serve.
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the layers to set, ensuring clean slices that reveal the tender pasta and rich fillings in all their glory.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our San Giorgio Lasagna is its flexibility for busy schedules—we can prepare it in advance to save time while preserving those irresistible layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheeses. This approach ensures the flavors meld even more, making it perfect for family gatherings or weeknight ease. Let’s break down the steps for making ahead, so we maintain that golden, bubbly finish every time.
Preparing Components in Advance
To get a head start, we focus on prepping the key elements before assembly:
- Meat Sauce: Cook the sauce as outlined in the previous steps, then let it cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. This allows the herbs and spices to intensify, enhancing the rich, aromatic profile.
- Ricotta Mixture: Mix the ricotta, egg, and fresh basil ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days to keep it fresh and creamy, ensuring it spreads smoothly during assembly.
- Noodles: Boil the San Giorgio Lasagna noodles al dente, then rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Toss with a light oil to prevent sticking, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
Assembling and Storing the Lasagna
Once components are ready, we can assemble the full dish:
- Layer in the Baking Dish: Follow the assembly instructions from the earlier section, building those signature layers without baking. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to lock in moisture and flavors.
- Refrigerate or Freeze: If using within 2 days, refrigerate the assembled lasagna. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months—we recommend labeling with the date to track freshness.
- Thawing Tips: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual process helps the noodles absorb the sauce evenly, resulting in a tender, cohesive texture.
Reheating for Optimal Results
When it’s time to enjoy, we reheat with care to recapture that fresh-baked essence:
- From the Refrigerator: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove coverings and bake for 45-50 minutes until heated through and bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes for clean slices that reveal the melted cheese’s stretchy goodness.
- From the Frozen State: Add 20-25 minutes to the baking time, covering with foil for the first half to prevent the top from over-browning. The result is a lasagna with deep, layered flavors that taste even more satisfying.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Keep covered to avoid drying |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw slowly for best texture |
Conclusion
We love how the San Giorgio Lasagna brings warmth to any table
It’s a reliable favorite that simplifies cooking without skimping on flavor
Let’s make it a go-to for your next gathering and savor those perfect layers every time
You’ll find it’s as rewarding to prepare as it is to share
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the San Giorgio Lasagna Box Recipe?
The San Giorgio Lasagna Box Recipe is a simple Italian-American comfort food classic featuring layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and melted cheeses. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, using reliable San Giorgio noodles for consistent results. This dish combines ease with hearty flavors, making it a go-to for cozy meals.
What ingredients are needed for San Giorgio Lasagna?
Key ingredients include San Giorgio Lasagna Noodles, ground beef, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, pepper, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheeses, fresh basil, and an egg. Prepare them as specified for optimal layering and flavor—boil noodles, brown meat, and mix cheeses for a balanced, delicious result.
What tools and equipment are required to make this lasagna?
You’ll need a large stockpot for boiling noodles, a skillet for cooking meat and veggies, a baking dish for layering, mixing bowls for prep, a colander for draining, and measuring cups for accuracy. These essentials ensure smooth preparation and a perfectly baked, golden finish.
How do I prepare San Giorgio Lasagna step by step?
Start by boiling the noodles and making the meat sauce in a skillet. Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, sauce, and mozzarella in a baking dish. Bake at 375°F for 45-50 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing for clean cuts and tender layers.
Can I make San Giorgio Lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the meat sauce, ricotta mixture, and noodles in advance. Assemble the lasagna and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months. This allows flavors to meld, making it ideal for busy schedules while keeping the dish fresh and convenient.
How should I store and reheat San Giorgio Lasagna?
Store baked lasagna in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw if frozen, then bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying, ensuring it retains its tender texture and rich taste.
What makes San Giorgio Lasagna noodles special?
San Giorgio Lasagna Noodles are reliable, high-quality pasta that cooks evenly and holds layers well, providing a perfect base for sauces and cheeses. They’re easy to work with, ensuring a satisfying texture without breaking, which enhances the overall comfort and appeal of the dish.