The San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe: A Family Favorite

Introduction

Lasagna is one of those comforting dishes that brings people together. Every time I make the San Giorgio Lasagna, I’m reminded of cozy family gatherings where the aroma of melted cheese and rich meat sauce fills the air. My family always gets excited when they know lasagna is on the menu. The layers of tender pasta, savory beef, and creamy ricotta create a harmony of flavors that everyone loves. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, with each layer adding a touch of warmth and nostalgia. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this lasagna never fails to impress.

Ingredients

To make this delightful San Giorgio Lasagna, you will need:

• 12 San Giorgio Lasagna noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 32 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 26 ounces pasta sauce (preferably marinara)

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions for the San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the oven to reach the correct temperature while you’re preparing the lasagna.
2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
   Cook the 12 San Giorgio lasagna noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop them from sticking together, then set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and crumbled into small pieces—this should take about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done cooking, drain any excess fat from the skillet if needed, then pour in your preferred pasta sauce (26 ounces) into the skillet with the meat mixture. Stir well until combined.
4. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
   In a separate mixing bowl, combine 32 ounces of ricotta cheese, 2 beaten eggs, 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix these ingredients together until it forms a smooth paste-like consistency.
5. Assemble the Lasagna:
   In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 1/3 of the meat sauce across the bottom. Top it with a layer of lasagna noodles (using about 4 noodles per layer). Follow this with a generous dollop of half your ricotta cheese mixture, spreading it out evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Repeat the Layers:
   Repeat the previous step for another layer. Add another third of the meat sauce, followed by another layer of noodles, the remaining half of your ricotta mix, and another cup of mozzarella.
7. Final Layer:
   For the final layer, place down your last set of lasagna noodles and cover these with all remaining meat sauce. To finish off your masterpiece, distribute any leftover mozzarella cheese across this final meaty layer, adding that extra cheesy touch with a sprinkling of grated Parmesan (½ cup).
8. Bake the Lasagna:
   Once assembled, pop your soon-to-be-delicious lasagna in the preheated oven for roughly 30-35 minutes, or until bubbling hot and golden brown on top.
9. Let It Rest:
   After removing from the oven, allow it to sit undisturbed for around 15 minutes before serving. This resting period is essential for the layers to settle perfectly. Now slice up pieces and be ready to enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: Approximately 480
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 34g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 28g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve

To serve your delicious San Giorgio Lasagna, consider the following:

• Cut the lasagna into square pieces for even servings.
• Serve with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Offer garlic bread to soak up the rich sauce.
• Pair with a glass of red wine for a complete Italian dining experience.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added color and flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
2. Let It Rest: Allow the lasagna to sit after baking to make slicing easier.
3. Customize Your Meat: Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
4. Add Veggies: Consider layering in some sautéed spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
5. Cheese Choices: Mix different cheeses like provolone or fontina for unique flavors.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Lasagna: Replace the ground beef with a mix of roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
• White Lasagna: Use a béchamel sauce instead of marinara and layer with spinach and ricotta for a creamy twist.
• Spicy Lasagna: Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a bit of heat.
• Cheesy Lasagna: Increase the amount of mozzarella and Parmesan for extra cheesiness.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette.
• Pair with a crusty Italian bread or focaccia.
• Complement with a light dessert, such as sorbet or panna cotta.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze assembled, uncooked lasagna for up to 3 months. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Storage: Leftover cooked lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
   Yes, no-boil noodles are a great option; just follow the package instructions.
2. Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Assemble it in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
3. What type of cheese is best for lasagna?
   A mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan is traditional, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
4. How do I know when the lasagna is done?
   Look for bubbling sauce and a golden brown top; a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
5. Can I add meat alternatives?
   Yes, ground turkey or plant-based meat can be used for a healthier or vegetarian version.
6. What can I serve with lasagna?
   Garlic bread, salad, or a light dessert pairs well with lasagna.
7. Can I use different types of pasta?
   While traditional lasagna noodles are preferred, you can use other pasta shapes in a pinch.
8. How can I make lasagna spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce.
9. Is it safe to reheat lasagna?
   Yes, as long as it’s stored properly and heated thoroughly.
10. How can I make my lasagna more flavorful?
    Use fresh herbs and high-quality sauce for a more robust taste.

Conclusion

The San Giorgio Lasagna recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings family and friends together. Each layer tells a story of flavor, comfort, and tradition. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering or a casual weeknight dinner, this lasagna is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves and dive into the delicious world of homemade lasagna. Your family will thank you!

Print