Preparing the Meat Sauce:
- Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef (and pork, if using) to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
- Add Tomatoes and Season: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assembling the Lasagna:
- Preheat Oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix Ricotta Filling: Combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Layer the Lasagna: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Baking Frozen Garlic Bread:
- Preheat the Oven: Follow the instructions on the garlic bread package, usually preheating to around 375°F (190°C) to 425°F (220°C).
- Bake: Place the garlic bread on a baking sheet. If it’s wrapped in foil, you can open the foil for the last few minutes of baking for a crispier top. Bake according to the package instructions, typically around 10-15 minutes.
Tips for Success:
- Meat Sauce: Allowing the meat sauce to simmer for an extended period helps develop a deeper flavor. Adding a splash of red wine enhances the richness of the sauce.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking makes it easier to cut and helps the layers set.
- Garlic Bread: For extra flavor, consider adding a bit of extra garlic butter, Parmesan cheese, or herbs to the garlic bread before baking.
This classic pairing of lasagna and garlic bread creates a meal that is both comforting and hearty, perfect for any occasion that calls for a touch of Italian flair. The richness of the lasagna, with its layers of pasta, cheese, and meat sauce, complements the crispy, buttery garlic bread, making for a truly satisfying dining experience.