lasagne

lasagne is one of my signature dishes, i don’t think that i’ve made it the same way twice.  it has changed and evolved over time, depending on how much prep time i have, what i’ve got in the kitchen and how many people i’m cooking for.  i like to make lasagne split up between two ez-foil pans.  i like the long loaf pans because they accommodate lasagne noodles so well and i can freeze one for later.   they’re also very easy to clean up!  you can find these pans at larger grocery stores, such as meijer’s and wal-mart.

• 2 boxes lasagne noodles
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 lb. italian sausage, removed from casings
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• italian seasoning
• salt and pepper, as desired
• 2 jars spaghetti sauce, your choice of flavor, brand
• 1 qt. tomato juice
• 16 oz. ricotta cheese
• 12 oz. cottage cheese
• 6 oz. cream cheese
• 4 c mozzarella cheese, separated in half
• garlic powder
• grated parmesan cheese to top

1. in a large pan, brown beef and sausage with minced garlic and onion.  season with italian seasoning, salt and pepper.  drain off excess oil.
2. in a large bowl, mix together the ricotta, cottage, cream and 2 c of mozzarella cheeses.  season lightly with garlic powder.
3. in another large bowl, combine tomato sauce and juice.
4. now it’s time to assemble!  divide meat in half, with the amounts listed, you will make a 7 layer lasagne.  start layering with meat and 3/4 c of sauce.  evenly spread the sauce with a spatula or spoon.  place two uncooked lasagne noodles between each mixture. spread a layer of the cheese mixture over the noodles and top with two additional noodles.  repeat until you reach the top of the pans or end on a meat/sauce layer.
5. the second pan can be frozen, top with a layer of saran wrap and aluminum foil.  it takes about 12 hours to unthaw, when you’re ready to bake it.
6. bake at 375° for 30 min.  top with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for an additional 15 min. until bubbly and browned on top.  serve with freshly grated parmesan on top.

enjoy!