If you’re craving a classic Italian comfort dish that brings family and friends together in the most delicious way, this San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s the perfect balance of rich, meaty sauce, creamy ricotta layers, and melty mozzarella, all nestled between tender pasta sheets. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds and sharing stories around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each bringing unique flavors and textures to this iconic dish. From savory ground beef to creamy ricotta and tangy Parmesan, every element plays a crucial role in crafting that irresistible lasagna experience.
- 12 San Giorgio lasagna noodles: These form the delicious, tender layers that hold everything together perfectly.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory base of the meat sauce that’s full of flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef and garlic.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with that wonderful aromatic punch essential in Italian cooking.
- 32 oz ricotta cheese: Gives a creamy, luscious texture that balances the meatiness of the sauce.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Help bind the ricotta mixture to keep it smooth and sliceable.
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the ricotta mix and adds a hint of herbal freshness.
- ½ tsp salt: Essential for seasoning throughout the dish to bring out all flavors.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a little warmth and spice to the ricotta blend.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts to a bubbly, golden perfection, creating those irresistible cheesy bites.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty finish sprinkled on top before baking.
- 26 oz pasta sauce (preferably marinara): The vibrant tomato sauce ties the whole dish together with its tangy and rich taste.
How to Make San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by warming your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gentle heat is perfect to cook the lasagna evenly and melt all the cheese to golden bubbly goodness.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Following the package directions, cook your San Giorgio lasagna noodles until they’re just al dente. This means they should be tender but still have a slight bite. Drain them well and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and keep the noodles from sticking. Set them aside for assembly.
Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, sauté the ground beef alongside the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until everything is browned and fragrant, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed to keep the sauce from being greasy. Then, pour in your marinara sauce and stir it all together until perfectly combined. This rich meat sauce is the heart and soul of your San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe.
Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Layer
In a bowl, blend the creamy ricotta cheese with the beaten eggs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything until smooth and well incorporated. This creamy ricotta mixture will contrast beautifully with the savory meat sauce and add a delightful richness to each bite.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and start by spreading a generous third of the meat sauce over the bottom. Layer about 4 noodles over the sauce, then dollop and spread half of your ricotta mixture atop the noodles. Sprinkle a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over this layer for gooey cheesiness. Repeat this layering process once more: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella. On your final layer, top the noodles with the remaining meat sauce, then scatter the last of your mozzarella followed by a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese for a beautiful, savory crust after baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover your assembled lasagna with foil so it stays moist and bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for it to be hot and bubbly all the way through, with the cheese melted and just starting to turn golden. This slow baking lets all the flavors meld into that perfect harmony San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe is known for.
Step 7: Rest and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let your lasagna rest for about 15 minutes. This step is essential—it helps the layers set so that when you slice, the pieces hold together beautifully and you get those perfect, flavorful bites every time.
How to Serve San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a pinch of grated Parmesan can elevate the presentation and add an extra fresh, zesty note. A drizzle of good olive oil can also add a silky finish that’s both aromatic and appetizing.
Side Dishes
This lasagna works wonderfully alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables for added color and nutrition. Garlic bread is a classic companion, perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to add a special touch, serve individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets or small ceramic dishes for a rustic, cozy feel. You might also garnish with fresh basil leaves or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat and contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days and keeps the flavors just as delicious as the day it was made.
Freezing
San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe freezes beautifully. Place individual portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to three months, making it an excellent meal to prepare ahead for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen lasagna overnight in the fridge if possible. Then, warm it in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly, usually around 20 to 30 minutes. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions but expect the texture to be best when using the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese besides ricotta?
Absolutely! While ricotta is traditional and provides creamy texture, you can substitute with cottage cheese or even a blend of ricotta and mascarpone for a richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Is it necessary to boil the noodles before assembling?
Yes, pre-cooking the San Giorgio lasagna noodles ensures they cook evenly and have the perfect tender texture. If you’re pressed for time, you can use no-boil noodles, but you’ll need to add extra sauce to keep everything moist.
Can I prepare the San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire lasagna a day before baking and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
What’s the best way to prevent the lasagna from drying out?
Covering the lasagna with foil during baking helps retain moisture. Also, using plenty of sauce and not skimping on the cheese layers keeps the whole dish luscious and delightful.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Of course! Replace the ground beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils and use a vegetable-based marinara sauce. The layers of cheese and sauce will still deliver an incredibly satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe feels like wrapping yourself in a warm, delicious hug. Each step is a joyful moment that culminates in serving a dish bursting with flavor and love. Whether you’re a lasagna veteran or trying it for the first time, this recipe promises to become a treasured part of your cooking repertoire. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and relish every cheesy, saucy bite!
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San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A classic San Giorgio Lasagna recipe featuring layers of tender lasagna noodles, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles
- 12 San Giorgio lasagna noodles
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 26 oz pasta sauce (preferably marinara)
Cheese Mixture
- 32 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Topping Cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the lasagna.
- Cook the Noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking, then set aside.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until browned, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the pasta sauce and mix until well combined.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten eggs, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Assemble the Lasagna: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread one third of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom. Layer with about 4 lasagna noodles, then spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles and sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Second Layer: Add another third of the meat sauce, a second layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, and another cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Final Layer: Place the remaining noodles, top with the remaining meat sauce, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the lasagna is hot and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it sit for about 15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure to rinse noodles with cold water after boiling to prevent sticking.
- Be careful not to overcook the noodles or they may become mushy after baking.
- Drain excess fat from cooked beef to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the meat sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
