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Lasagna is a beloved comfort food that has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations. Layers of pasta, rich sauce, and gooey cheese come together to create an unforgettable dish that is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply indulging on a cozy night in. This recipe, "Crispy Perfect Baked Lasagna Winks," puts a delightful twist on the traditional lasagna, inviting you to experience its crispy edges and flavorful layers.

Crispy Perfect Baked Lasagna Winks

A delicious and crispy baked lasagna with layers of meat, cheese, and pasta.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 7

Ingredients
  

  • 9.0 pieces lasagna noodles
  • 2.0 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2.0 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1.0 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1.0 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 2.0 cups marinara sauce
  • 2.0 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1.0 small onion, chopped
  • 2.0 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1.0 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1.0 teaspoon dried basil
  • 0.0 to taste Salt
  • 0.0 to taste Pepper
  • 0.0 leaves Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Once cooked, drain excess grease if necessary.
  • Pour in the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meat mixture. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors. Remove from heat.
  • In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well blended.
  • In a 9x13 inch baking dish, start layering your ingredients: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place 3 uncooked lasagna noodles on top, covering the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by another layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layering process, finishing with the last 3 noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce.
  • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. This will create a crispy, gooey crust when baked!
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to avoid sticking, spray it with cooking spray side down). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbling.
  • Allow the lasagna winks to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

Can be made with a plant-based alternative for the meat.
Keyword baked, lasagna, pasta