why make this recipe
Christmas Lasagna is a wonderful dish that brings warmth and joy to your holiday table. It’s filled with rich flavors and hearty ingredients, making it the perfect meal for family gatherings. This recipe combines layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s easy to prepare, and it can feed a crowd, making it a great choice for festive celebrations.
how to make Christmas Lasagna
Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and salt. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, and spinach until well combined.
- In a large baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce.
- Top with a layer of noodles, then spread the ricotta mixture, followed by mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of meat sauce and mozzarella.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and cover with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving this hearty holiday lasagna.
how to serve Christmas Lasagna
Serve Christmas Lasagna hot from the oven. Cut it into squares and place on plates. You can add a side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a festive drink to complement the flavors.
how to store Christmas Lasagna
If you have leftovers, let the lasagna cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container or cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just cover it tightly, and it can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
tips to make Christmas Lasagna
- Make sure to cook the ground beef fully and drain any excess fat for a lighter dish.
- Feel free to add more veggies, like mushrooms or bell peppers, to the meat sauce for extra flavor.
- Let the lasagna rest before cutting to help it hold its shape when serving.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer taste; adding ricotta to mozzarella can enhance creaminess.
variation
You can make a vegetarian version of Christmas Lasagna by replacing the ground beef with more vegetables or lentils. Tofu can also be a great substitute for ricotta cheese for a dairy-free option.
FAQs
1. Can I make Christmas Lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for a day or two. Just bake it once you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can swap mozzarella for other cheeses like provolone or gouda to change the flavor profile of the dish.
3. How do I reheat leftover lasagna?
To reheat, you can place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for convenience.
