This Sicilian Lasagna is a rich and hearty dish filled with layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce. It’s comfort food at its best!
What I love most? It’s like a warm hug on a plate! You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds—don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone! 😄
Making this lasagna can be a fun weekend project. I usually pair it with a crisp salad to balance the flavors. Enjoy it with family and friends for a cozy meal together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Pasta: You can use either dried or fresh pasta. If you want to save time, pre-cooked lasagna sheets are a great option. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free lasagna noodles.
Ricotta Cheese: Traditional ricotta gives a lovely creaminess. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use cottage cheese, though it will alter the texture a bit. I sometimes mix in a bit of cream cheese for extra richness.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is essential, but feel free to experiment with provolone or even a blend of your favorites. Instead of Pecorino Romano, you could use Parmesan cheese for a milder flavor. Both will melt beautifully.
Ground Meats: This recipe uses ground beef and Italian sausage for flavor. If you’re health-conscious, ground turkey or chicken works too. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or mushrooms for a hearty filling.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: This is a unique Sicilian touch! If you’re not keen on eggs, you can skip them. Or add sautéed spinach for extra texture and flavor.
How Do You Make the Best Meat Sauce?
The meat sauce is the heart of this lasagna, and getting it just right makes all the difference. Here’s how to ensure it’s flavorful and thick:
- Start with medium heat and let the onions cook until soft and golden; this enhances their sweetness.
- When cooking the meat, ensure it’s well-browned to develop those rich flavors. Don’t rush this step!
- Simmering your sauce gradually, allows the flavors from the tomatoes to meld with the meat. If you have time, a longer simmer is always better!
- Adjust seasoning toward the end. Taste the sauce and tweak with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed!
Taking these steps to heart will help you create an unforgettable meat sauce that pairs perfectly with the layers of pasta and cheese in your lasagna!
The Godfather’s Sicilian Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Cheese:
- 12-15 sheets of dried or fresh lasagna pasta (or enough for about 3 layers)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225g) Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz (800g) canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and sliced (a Sicilian touch)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious lasagna will take about 1 hour 30 minutes in total, including 30-45 minutes for simmering the sauce and 45 minutes for baking. Plus, it benefits from a little resting time to set before serving, which is the perfect opportunity to prepare a salad as a side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm a few tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. This creates a solid flavor base for your sauce!
2. Cook the Meats:
Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Break the meat up with a spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary to avoid a greasy sauce.
3. Mix In Tomatoes:
Stir in the tomato paste and allow it to cook for about 2 minutes. Then, pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and red wine (if you’re using it). Stir in sugar, oregano, basil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer over low heat for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the magic happens; let those flavors meld!
4. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles:
While your sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna sheets according to package instructions until they are al dente. Drain them and lay the sheets flat on a clean kitchen towel to avoid sticking.
5. Preheat the Oven:
As your sauce is nearly done, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with half of the chopped parsley and a pinch of salt to create a deliciously creamy filling!
7. Assemble the Lasagna:
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a deep 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Lay down the first layer of lasagna pasta sheets. Then, spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella and Pecorino Romano cheese.
8. Repeat the Layers:
Add a generous layer of meat sauce over the cheeses, then arrange the sliced hard-boiled egg evenly over the sauce. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, making sure to finish with a top layer of mozzarella and Pecorino Romano cheese.
9. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let It Rest:
Once it’s finished baking, let the lasagna rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps set those layers and makes serving much easier!
11. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with remaining fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy the rich layers of flavors and tradition in every bite of your Godfather’s Sicilian Lasagna!
FAQ About The Godfather’s Sicilian Lasagna
Can I Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! No-boil lasagna noodles are great for convenience. Just layer them directly into your dish without pre-cooking. You may want to add a bit more sauce to ensure there’s enough moisture for them to cook through.
How Can I Customize This Recipe?
Feel free to customize the meats by using ground turkey or a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version. You can also add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms between the layers for added nutrition and flavor!
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the lasagna a day in advance. Assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you may need to add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual portions wrapped in foil and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results!
