1️⃣ Make the Meat Sauce
In a large pot, brown ground beef and sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft (about 5 mins).
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, wine, sugar, and seasonings.
Simmer 30-45 mins, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
2️⃣ Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, parsley, Parmesan, and salt until smooth.
3️⃣ Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup meat sauce on the bottom.
Layer:
4 lasagna noodles (slightly overlapping)
1/3 ricotta mixture
1/3 remaining meat sauce
1 cup mozzarella
Repeat layers 2 more times.
Top with final 4 noodles, remaining meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
4️⃣ Bake to Perfection
Cover with foil and bake 25 mins.
Uncover and bake 15-20 more mins until bubbly and golden.
Let rest 15 mins before slicing (crucial for clean cuts!).
🔥 Pro Tips for Maggiano’s-Level Lasagna
🔹 Use fresh herbs – They elevate the flavor.
🔹 Don’t skip the wine – Adds depth to the sauce.
🔹 Rest before slicing – Prevents a messy lasagna.
🔹 Boil noodles if not oven-ready – Cook al dente to avoid mush.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
With garlic bread & Caesar salad – Classic Italian combo!
Meal prep – Freeze portions for easy dinners.
Special occasions – Holidays, birthdays, or Sunday supper.
