The ultimate comfort food: learn how to cook kirkland italian sausage and beef lasagna for a satisfying feast
Indulge in the delectable flavors of Kirkland Italian Sausage and Beef Lasagna, a dish that combines the hearty richness of Italian sausage with the succulent texture of ground beef. This blog post will guide you through a step-by-step process, providing all the essential techniques and tips to create a mouthwatering lasagna that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces Kirkland Italian Sausage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
#1. Brown the Meat:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and ground beef, breaking them into small pieces as they cook. Brown until no longer pink.
#2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
#3. Create the Sauce:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
#4. Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with 6 lasagna noodles.
#5. Layer the Meat and Cheese:
Spread half of the meat mixture over the noodles. Top with half of the ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
#6. Bake and Let Rest:
Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
#7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the meat, as it will become tough.
- Season the sauce generously to enhance the taste.
- Let the lasagna rest before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
- For a crispy top, uncover the lasagna during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat mixture.
- Use different types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, for a variety of flavors.
- Top the lasagna with a creamy béchamel sauce for a decadent touch.
FAQs:
1. Can I use frozen lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use frozen lasagna noodles. Thaw them completely before assembling the lasagna.
2. How can I make the lasagna ahead of time?
Assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
3. How do I store leftover lasagna?
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
