Lasagne is a universally loved dish, synonymous with comfort, warmth, and hearty meals. But what if you could achieve all that deliciousness without spending hours in the kitchen? Say hello to Cheat Lasagne – your new best friend for Italian cuisine indulgence without the hassle!
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Cheat Lasagne
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Cheat Lasagne
Ingredients
- 750 g 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 medium white onion chopped
- ½ bell pepper chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 600 ml 20 fl.oz tomato sauce
- 400 ml 14 fl.oz beef stock
- 1 tablespoon italian herbs
- 2 bay leaves
- 400 g 14 oz ricotta
- 1 cup mozzarella shredded
- 6-8 lasagne sheets
- basil leaves
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron placed over the medium heat. Saute onions and peppers for 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.1 medium white onion, ½ bell pepper, 4 garlic cloves
- Add beef to the pan and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 10 minutes. Drain excess liquid if needed.750 g 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- Season meat with Italian herbs, salt and pepper. Pour in tomato sauce and beef stock. Bring to a boil.600 ml 20 fl.oz tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon italian herbs, 400 ml 14 fl.oz beef stock
- Break lasagna sheets into pieces and add into the meat sauce. Bring to a boil again. Stir in sliced basil, put dollops of ricotta cheese on top and sprinkle with mozzarella.400 g 14 oz ricotta, 6-8 lasagne sheets, basil leaves, 1 cup mozzarella
- Bake for 20 minutes.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 750 g (1 ½ pounds) ground beef
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- ½ bell pepper, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 600 ml (20 fl.oz) tomato sauce
- 400 ml (14 fl.oz) beef stock
- 1 tablespoon italian herbs
- 2 bay leaves
- 400 g (14 oz) ricotta
- 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
- 6-8 lasagne sheets
- basil leaves
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
Heat olive oil in a cast iron placed over the medium heat. Saute onions and peppers for 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
Add beef to the pan and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 10 minutes. Drain excess liquid if needed.
Season meat with Italian herbs, salt and pepper. Pour in tomato sauce and beef stock. Bring to a boil.
Break lasagna sheets into pieces and add into the meat sauce. Bring to a boil again. Stir in sliced basil and bay leaves, put dollops of ricotta cheese on top and sprinkle with mozzarella.
Bake for 20 minutes.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Garlic Bread
There’s something undeniably satisfying about dipping crusty garlic bread into the saucy goodness of lasagne. This warm and buttery bread, infused with garlic and herbs, complements the flavors of the pasta dish beautifully. Consider making your own with a baguette, butter, minced garlic, and parsley for a homemade delight.
Crisp Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad offers a refreshing, crunchy contrast to the creamy lasagne. Made with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a zesty dressing, it complements the rich flavors while adding an extra layer of freshness to your meal. You can also add grilled chicken or bacon for a little extra protein.
Roasted Vegetables
Pairing your Cheat Lasagne with roasted seasonal vegetables not only adds color to your dinner table but also boosts nutrition. Think of vibrant bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and asparagus roasted with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The natural sweetness of the veggies and their caramelized edges will enhance the overall dining experience.
Red Wine
No Italian meal is complete without a good wine. Consider serving a robust red, such as Chianti or Merlot, to elevate the flavors of your lasagne. These wines provide rich, complementary notes that pair excellently with the dish’s savory and cheesy layers.
By incorporating these delicious accompaniments, your Cheat Lasagne becomes the centerpiece of a delectable and memorable meal, offering an array of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the flavor and texture of your lasagne. Opt for fresh vegetables, good quality ground beef, and premium ricotta and mozzarella cheese. Fresh herbs like basil can significantly enhance the aroma and taste, providing a vibrant and authentic Italian experience.
Allow the Lasagne to Rest
Once you've baked the lasagne, it's crucial to let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the layers set, ensuring each slice is neat and cohesive when serving. The flavors meld together more harmonically during this time, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
Infuse the Meat Sauce with Red Wine
Elevate the meat sauce by adding a splash of red wine. This addition introduces a depth of flavor and a touch of acidity that complements the richness of the dish. Choose a wine you enjoy drinking, as its flavor will concentrate during cooking.
Experiment with Additional Spices
While Italian herbs provide a classic taste, do not hesitate to experiment with other spices like paprika or chili flakes for an extra kick. These can add warmth and a hint of complexity to the sauce, catering to those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.
Toast the Basil Leaves Before Garnishing
For a slight twist, gently toast the basil leaves before using them as a garnish. This process releases their essential oils, enhancing their fragrance and adding a unique texture. It also gives a slight nuttiness that pairs well with the creamy cheese topping.
These chef's tips will not only enhance your Cheat Lasagne experience but also give you the flexibility to tweak the recipe to suit your palate perfectly.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Cheat Lasagne Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the lasagne as instructed, but instead of baking, cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to eat, bake it in a preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute are excellent alternatives. They all work well with the same seasoning and sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or reheat in a preheated oven at 180C/350F for about 15 minutes.
Can I Freeze Cheat Lasagne?
Yes, Cheat Lasagne can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven at 190C/375F for approximately 30-35 minutes until heated through.
What Vegetables Can I Add to This Lasagne?
Feel free to customize your Cheat Lasagne with vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Simply sauté them with the onions and peppers to integrate seamlessly into the dish, adding both nutritional value and extra flavor.
Is There a Vegetarian Version?
Certainly! To make a vegetarian Cheat Lasagne, omit the ground beef and substitute with more vegetables or a plant-based protein like lentils. Use a rich vegetable stock instead of beef stock to maintain the savory depth in the sauce.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you loved this Cheat Lasagne, you're going to adore our other casseroles. Each recipe is crafted to bring convenience and gourmet flavors to your dining table.
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