Cathy's Lasagna

Cathy's Lasagna Recipe - Traditional Italian Recipe with Sausage and Cheeses

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Cathy's Lasagna is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. This recipe is packed with flavor and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

History

This lasagna recipe has been passed down through generations in Cathy's family. It has been a favorite for family dinners and celebrations for many years.

Ingredients

Lasagna Sauce

2 lb (907 g) sausage
2 tsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves
4 tsp oregano
1 onion
2 tsp basil
3 tsp parsley
2 tsp garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste
2 tsp cajun seasoning
2 tsp sugar
1 can (28 oz (794 g)) tomato sauce and 1 can of water
2 can (6 oz (170 g)) tomato paste and 2 cans of water
1 can (16 oz (454 g)) diced tomatoes
2 cans mushrooms

Lasagna Filling

6 lasagna noodles
1 package italian seasoning
2 blocks (8 oz (227 g)) mozzarella cheese
1 package shredded mozzarella
1 lb (454 g) ricotta cheese
1 cup parmesan cheese
1 cup parsley
1 tsp basil
dash of pepper
dash of salt
olive oil
1 egg

How to prepare

Lasagna Sauce

Chop 3 garlic cloves. Add garlic to olive oil and cook until garlic bubbles.
Add the onion and turn to medium-low heat.
Simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes.
While simmering, add the other ingredients and mix well.
Stir every couple of minutes for about 10 minutes.
Cover and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Lasagna Filling

Combine ricotta cheese, egg, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, parsley, a dash of black pepper, and 1 tsp of basil.
Mix well with a fork and set aside.

Lasagna

Spoon a small amount of lasagna sauce on the bottom of the pan.
Layer noodles, then dollop lasagna filling about 2" apart; carefully spread out.
Top with mozzarella cheese slices.
Spoon lasagna filling on top of this.
Sprinkle some of the Parmesan cheese mixture on top of this.
Repeat the process.
Cover the pan and cook for 45 minutes.
Remove the foil and cook for 10 more minutes.
Take out and let it sit for 10 more minutes before serving.

Variations

Add cooked ground beef or turkey to the sauce for a meatier lasagna.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente before assembling the dish to prevent them from becoming mushy.

- Letting the lasagna sit for a few minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld together and makes for easier slicing.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or meats to the sauce or filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cathy's Lasagna with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Layering the lasagna in the correct order ensures that each bite is filled with delicious flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to substitute the sausage with ground beef or turkey for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Cathy's Lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the lasagna with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Cathy's Lasagna with a glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cathy's Lasagna contains approximately 500 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cathy's Lasagna contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cathy's Lasagna contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cathy's Lasagna contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cathy's Lasagna is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (noodles), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Cathy's Lasagna is a well-balanced meal that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Cathy's Lasagna is a classic and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With layers of flavorful sauce, cheese, and noodles, this lasagna is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. It was a warm summer day, and my dear friend Cathy had invited me over for lunch. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the most mouth-watering aroma. Cathy was standing at the stove, stirring a pot of bubbling tomato sauce, a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

"Hello, my dear! I'm so glad you could join me today," Cathy exclaimed, giving me a warm hug. "I'm making my famous lasagna for lunch. Would you like to help me?"

I eagerly nodded, eager to learn the secrets behind Cathy's delicious lasagna. As we worked together, Cathy shared the story of how she had come to perfect this recipe over the years.

"It all started when I was a young girl," Cathy began, her hands expertly layering noodles, cheese, and sauce in a large baking dish. "My grandmother used to make the most amazing lasagna for our family gatherings. I would watch her in awe, mesmerized by her skill in the kitchen. I begged her to teach me her recipe, and she finally relented."

Cathy's eyes sparkled with nostalgia as she recounted the hours spent in her grandmother's kitchen, learning the ins and outs of making the perfect lasagna. She shared how her grandmother would patiently guide her through each step, teaching her the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to let the flavors meld together.

"As I grew older, I continued to tweak and perfect the recipe, adding my own personal touches along the way," Cathy explained, a proud smile on her face. "Now, it's become a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that I love to share with friends and family."

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I took my first bite of Cathy's lasagna and was transported to a world of flavor. The layers of tender noodles, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese melted in my mouth, leaving me craving more.

"Wow, Cathy, this is absolutely incredible," I exclaimed, savoring each bite. "I can see why this recipe is so special to you."

Cathy beamed with pride, her eyes shining with happiness. "I'm so glad you enjoy it, my dear. Cooking is not just about following a recipe, it's about putting love and care into every dish you make. That's what makes a meal truly special."

As we finished our lunch, I knew that I had to learn how to make Cathy's lasagna for myself. I begged her to teach me her secrets, and she happily agreed.

Over the next few weeks, Cathy patiently guided me through each step of the recipe, sharing tips and tricks that she had picked up along the way. I learned the importance of using high-quality ingredients, taking the time to layer the flavors just right, and allowing the lasagna to bake to perfection in the oven.

Finally, the day arrived when I felt confident enough to make Cathy's lasagna on my own. I gathered all the ingredients, set aside an afternoon to cook, and dove into the process with enthusiasm.

As I worked in my own kitchen, I could feel Cathy's presence beside me, guiding me through each step with her gentle voice and encouraging words. I poured my heart and soul into the dish, determined to make it just as delicious as Cathy's.

When the lasagna finally emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling, I knew that I had succeeded. The aroma filled my kitchen, bringing back memories of that first day at Cathy's house.

I sat down to enjoy a slice of the lasagna, savoring the flavors and feeling a sense of accomplishment wash over me. I had learned a valuable lesson from Cathy - that cooking is not just about following a recipe, but about putting your own love and care into each dish you make.

As I finished my meal, I knew that Cathy's lasagna would become a treasured recipe in my own collection, one that I would pass down to future generations with pride. And I would always remember the day that I learned to make it, thanks to the guidance and friendship of my dear friend Cathy.