Lasagna with Homemade Pasta

Making lasagna with homemade pasta adds an extra layer of freshness and flavor to this classic Italian dish. Here’s a recipe for lasagna with homemade pasta:

Ingredients:

For the Homemade Pasta:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• Pinch of salt

For the Lasagna Filling:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cans (each 6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Cheese Filling:

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Other Ingredients:

• Homemade pasta sheets (or store-bought lasagna noodles)
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

For the Homemade Pasta:

1. Make Pasta Dough:
   • On a clean surface, create a mound with the flour. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Add a pinch of salt. Gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs, kneading until you have a smooth dough. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
2. Roll Out Pasta:
   • Divide the pasta dough into small portions. Roll each portion into thin sheets using a pasta machine or a rolling pin. Cut the sheets into lasagna-sized pieces.
3. Cook Pasta:
   • Cook the homemade pasta sheets in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

For the Lasagna Filling:

1. Brown Meat:
   • In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic and sauté until softened.
2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
   • Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), fresh basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

For the Cheese Filling:

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, one egg, salt, and black pepper.

Assembling the Lasagna:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layering:
   • In a baking dish, start with a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of pasta sheets, and then a layer of the cheese mixture. Repeat until you reach the top of the dish, finishing with a layer of meat sauce.
3. Top with Mozzarella:
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top layer.
4. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
5. Rest Before Serving:
   • Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve:
   • Serve your homemade pasta lasagna hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty homemade pasta lasagna!