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The Godfather Sicilian Lasagna Recipe

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4.9 from 133 reviews

The Godfather Sicilian Lasagna is a rich, hearty, and traditional Italian-American dish featuring layers of tender lasagna noodles, a savory meat sauce made from ground beef and pork, and a creamy ricotta cheese mixture. This comforting baked pasta combines robust flavors of garlic, onion, and tomatoes with Italian herbs, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, making it a perfect family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat Sauce

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Lasagna Layers

  • 1 pound lasagna noodles
  • 32 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs, beaten

Garnish

  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, cook the ground beef and ground pork until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
  2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Lay noodles flat on a clean kitchen towel or baking sheet.
  3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten eggs, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until smooth and creamy. This mixture will add richness and a creamy texture to the lasagna layers.
  4. Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Top with a generous amount of meat sauce, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layering process (noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of meat sauce and mozzarella. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
  5. Bake the Lasagna: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before serving to set properly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and fresh herb aroma. Slice and serve warm, enjoying the classic flavors of this Sicilian-American favorite.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use a mix of ground beef and pork as indicated, but you can also substitute with all beef if preferred.
  • Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking helps it set and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
  • If you prefer no-boil noodles, adjust cooking times accordingly and add a bit more sauce to ensure noodles soften properly.
  • Fresh basil leaves can be substituted with dried basil sprinkled during layering if fresh is unavailable.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Find it online: https://amandafood.com/the-godfather-sicilian-lasagna-recipe/