Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that brings everyone to the table? This San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe is just what you need! Packed with layers of rich ricotta, flavorful spinach and beef, and authentic Italian sausage, it’s the perfect blend of tradition and taste. Whether you’re feeding a large crowd or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish never disappoints.
Imagine savoring each bite of cheesy, saucy goodness—it’s everything you love about classic Italian casseroles. Ready to bring a touch of Italy to your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe?
If you’re searching for a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion, this San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe is a must-try! Here’s why it stands out:
- Authentic Italian Flavor: With layers of ricotta, savory Italian sausage, and a hearty spinach and beef filling, this lasagna delivers a taste straight from Italy. It captures the essence of traditional authentic Italian lasagna recipes while adding a delightful twist.
- Versatility and Customization: Whether you’re craving a classic version or want to experiment with deep dish lasagna or even lasagna rolls with ricotta, this recipe offers endless possibilities. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste and preferences.
- Perfect for Any Gathering: Need to feed a large crowd? This lasagna is a hit at family dinners, holiday feasts, and potlucks. Its generous portions make it an ideal choice for satisfying hungry guests.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Imagine digging into layers of cheesy goodness and rich sauce—every bite brings warmth and comfort. It’s the ultimate Italian casserole recipe that feels like a hug in every serving.
Ready to experience the magic of this lasagna? Let’s explore the ingredients that make it unforgettable!
San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe Ingredients
To make this San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe absolutely irresistible, you’ll need the following ingredients. These are carefully chosen to create layers of rich flavor, cheesy goodness, and authentic Italian charm. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your preferences or the size of your gathering.
Pasta and Cheese Layers
- San Giorgio Lasagna Noodles – 1 box, cooked according to package instructions
- Ricotta Cheese – 2 cups (For that creamy, authentic touch. If you prefer, you can use it as a base for lasagna rolls with ricotta too!)
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – 3 cups (For gooey, melty perfection)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup (Adds a bold, savory kick)
Meat and Vegetable Filling
- Ground Beef – 1 pound (You can also try Italian sausage or a mix of both for added flavor)
- Spinach – 2 cups, chopped and sautéed (This twist brings a burst of color and nutrients, perfect for a lasagna recipe with spinach and beef)
- Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced (Because no Italian dish is complete without it!)
Sauce and Seasonings
- Marinara Sauce – 4 cups (Use your favorite brand or make it from scratch for an authentic Italian lasagna recipe)
- Dried Italian Herbs – 1 tablespoon (Oregano, basil, and thyme for that classic flavor)
- Salt and Black Pepper – To taste
Optional Add-Ins
- Red Pepper Flakes – For a touch of heat
- Fresh Basil Leaves – Chopped, for garnish
Tips for Ingredient Success:
- For a deep dish lasagna, double the sauce and cheese layers for extra indulgence.
- If you’re feeding a large crowd, consider using a bigger baking dish or making two smaller pans for easy serving.
- To achieve the best flavor, let the ricotta mixture sit for about 10 minutes before layering—it helps the herbs infuse beautifully.
Ready to bring these ingredients to life? Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this unforgettable lasagna!
How to Make San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe
Making this San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe is easier than you might think, and the end result is well worth the effort. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious, hearty lasagna that your family and friends will absolutely love.
Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Spinach Filling
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor) and cook until browned. Break up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. This not only adds a nutritious twist but also brings vibrant color to your lasagna recipe with spinach and beef.
- Season and Simmer: Pour in the marinara sauce and season with dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Ricotta Layer
- Combine Cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season the Mixture: Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a dash of dried Italian herbs. Mix until well combined. This layer is the secret to achieving that creamy, authentic texture found in traditional Italian casserole recipes.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or use a larger one for a deep dish lasagna.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
- Place a layer of San Giorgio Lasagna Noodles on top.
- Spread a generous portion of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Add another layer of meat sauce, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layering process until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of sauce topped with mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Pro Tip: For a flavorful twist, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes between layers if you enjoy a hint of spice.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese to avoid sticking. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set, making it easier to serve neat portions.
Tips for Success:
- If you’re making this for a large crowd, prepare the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate it. This enhances the flavors and makes dinner prep much easier!
- Want to try a fun variation? Roll up the lasagna noodles with ricotta and spinach to make lasagna rolls—they’re perfect for individual servings.
Now that your San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe is ready, all that’s left to do is dig in and enjoy every delicious bite!
Serving Suggestions
Your San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe is hot, bubbly, and ready to serve—but what should you pair it with to create a complete, unforgettable meal? Here are some serving ideas to elevate your dining experience:
Perfect Pairings
- Garlic Bread: Nothing complements lasagna quite like warm, buttery garlic bread. The crunchy exterior and soft, flavorful center are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the lasagna. It adds a refreshing contrast that enhances every bite.
- Italian-Style Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus seasoned with Italian herbs make a delicious and healthy side. They add color and variety to your plate while keeping the meal light.
Beverage Suggestions
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon is light and refreshing, cleansing your palate between bites.
Garnishing Tips
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top of the lasagna just before serving. It adds a burst of color and a delightful aromatic touch.
- Extra Parmesan: Place a bowl of grated Parmesan on the table for those who love an extra cheesy kick.
Hosting Tips for Large Crowds
- If you’re serving this San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe to a large crowd, consider making two pans—one with the traditional spinach and beef filling and another with a twist, like using Italian sausage for a bolder flavor.
- Pair it with a variety of sides, including deep dish lasagna variations or lasagna rolls with ricotta, for a fun and diverse spread.
No matter how you choose to serve it, this lasagna is sure to impress. Gather your loved ones, set the table, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, comforting meal!
San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe
San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe You’ll Absolutely Love
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese Layers:
- 1 box San Giorgio Lasagna Noodles – cooked according to package instructions
- 2 cups Ricotta Cheese – For that creamy, authentic touch. If you prefer, you can use it as a base for lasagna rolls with ricotta too!
- 3 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – For gooey, melty perfection
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a bold, savory kick
Meat and Vegetable Filling:
- 1 pound Ground Beef – You can also try Italian sausage or a mix of both for added flavor
- 2 cups Spinach – chopped and sautéed This twist brings a burst of color and nutrients, perfect for a lasagna recipe with spinach and beef
- 1 large Onion – finely chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic – minced Because no Italian dish is complete without it!
Sauce and Seasonings:
- 4 cups Marinara Sauce – Use your favorite brand or make it from scratch for an authentic Italian lasagna recipe
- 1 tablespoon Dried Italian Herbs – Oregano, basil, and thyme for that classic flavor
- Salt and Black Pepper – To taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- Red Pepper Flakes – For a touch of heat
- Fresh Basil Leaves – Chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Spinach Filling
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor) and cook until browned. Break up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. This not only adds a nutritious twist but also brings vibrant color to your lasagna recipe with spinach and beef.
- Season and Simmer: Pour in the marinara sauce and season with dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Ricotta Layer
- Combine Cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Season the Mixture: Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a dash of dried Italian herbs. Mix until well combined. This layer is the secret to achieving that creamy, authentic texture found in traditional Italian casserole recipes.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or use a larger one for a deep dish lasagna.
Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
- Place a layer of San Giorgio Lasagna Noodles on top.
- Spread a generous portion of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Add another layer of meat sauce, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layering process until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of sauce topped with mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese to avoid sticking. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set, making it easier to serve neat portions.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 22g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs
To help you master this San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe, here are some frequently asked questions along with practical tips to ensure your lasagna turns out perfect every time.
Q. Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! In fact, lasagna often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time. This is especially useful when cooking for a large crowd, as it saves time and reduces stress on the day of your gathering.
Q. Can I Freeze This Lasagna?
Yes, this San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe is freezer-friendly. Assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual. If baking from frozen, add about 30 minutes to the covered cooking time.
Q. How Do I Prevent Watery Lasagna?
To avoid watery lasagna, make sure to:
– Drain excess fat from the ground beef or Italian sausage before adding marinara sauce.
– Sauté the spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture, especially if using frozen spinach.
– Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This allows it to set and prevents it from falling apart when sliced.
Q. Can I Make This Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply skip the ground beef and Italian sausage, and double the amount of spinach for a flavorful vegetarian version. You can also add other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a more filling, plant-based lasagna.
Q. What Variations Can I Try?
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some fun ideas:
– Lasagna Rolls with Ricotta: Instead of layering, spread the ricotta mixture on each lasagna noodle, roll it up, and arrange the rolls in the baking dish with sauce and cheese on top.
– Deep Dish Lasagna: For an indulgent twist, double the layers and bake in a taller dish for a crowd-pleasing, hearty meal.
– Authentic Italian Lasagna Recipe: Use béchamel sauce instead of ricotta for a more traditional, creamy Italian version.
Q. Can I Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
Yes, no-boil noodles are a convenient alternative. Just make sure to add a little extra sauce to ensure they soften properly during baking. No-boil noodles are perfect for saving time, especially when making multiple pans for a large crowd.
These FAQs should answer most of your questions about making the perfect San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe. If you’re ready, it’s time to start cooking and enjoy this delicious, comforting classic!
Conclusion
Ready to get cooking? This San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful layer!
Loved this San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe? Don’t miss out on our other Italian-inspired dishes like Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta and Lavash Bread Pizza!