If you're someone who absolutely adores the crispy edges around a pan of lasagna, then you're in for a treat. This sheet pan lasagna recipe is tailor - made for you. Unlike the traditional lasagna that is layered in a baking dish, this version bakes quickly on a sheet pan, offering a unique and delicious twist to the classic Italian dish.
Let's start with the ingredients. You'll need some lasagna noodles. Make sure to choose high - quality ones as they form the base of our lasagna. You'll also need a generous amount of ricotta cheese. Ricotta adds a creamy and rich texture to the dish. Along with that, a good quantity of mozzarella cheese is essential. Mozzarella will melt beautifully and create that stretchy, cheesy goodness we all love in lasagna.
For the meat component, ground beef is a great choice. Brown it in a pan with some onions and garlic. Onions bring a sweet and savory flavor, while garlic adds a pungent kick. Season the ground beef with salt, pepper, and a bit of Italian seasoning. Italian seasoning typically includes herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme, which give the lasagna an authentic Italian taste.
Tomato sauce is another crucial ingredient. You can either use store - bought sauce or make your own from scratch. Homemade tomato sauce allows you to control the flavors and add your own personal touch. Add some crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a splash of red wine to the sauce for a deeper flavor.
Now, let's move on to the assembly. Preheat your oven to the appropriate temperature, usually around 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside.
On a sheet pan, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce. Then, place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Dollop some ricotta cheese over the noodles and spread it out evenly. Next, add a layer of the seasoned ground beef. Sprinkle some mozzarella cheese on top of the beef. Repeat these layers until you've used up all your ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on the top.
Cover the sheet pan with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for about 25 - 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the cheese to start melting. After 25 - 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 - 15 minutes. This second baking phase is what will create those crispy edges that we love so much. The exposed cheese will turn golden brown and crispy, while the noodles and sauce underneath will be perfectly cooked.
Once the lasagna is done baking, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the lasagna to set and makes it easier to cut into neat pieces. Serve the sheet pan lasagna hot, perhaps with a side salad or some garlic bread. The combination of the crispy edges, the creamy ricotta, the savory meat, and the cheesy goodness makes this sheet pan lasagna a winner for any dinner or meal.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it's also relatively easy to make. The sheet pan method reduces the cooking time compared to the traditional lasagna, which is great for busy weeknights. You can also customize the ingredients according to your preferences. If you're a vegetarian, you can skip the ground beef and add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
In conclusion, this sheet pan lasagna recipe is a must - try for anyone who loves the crispy edges of lasagna. It's a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish. So, head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and start baking this amazing sheet pan lasagna today!