If you are looking to create a comforting, hearty Italian classic that brings family and friends together, the San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish features layers of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and melty mozzarella, all baked to golden perfection. Each bite offers a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures that capture the heart of traditional Italian cooking. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this lasagna will surely become one of your go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create something truly spectacular. Every component plays a crucial role, from the savory meat sauce to the creamy cheese blend that adds moisture and richness, down to the perfect noodles that might just steal the show with their tender texture.
- 12 San Giorgio Lasagna noodles (pre-cooked): Using pre-cooked noodles saves time and ensures a smooth layering process without the risk of undercooked pasta.
- 1 lb ground beef: The foundation of the rich meat sauce, providing hearty flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef and garlic.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with that unmistakable aromatic punch that elevates the dish.
- 32 oz Ricotta cheese: Brings a creamy, luscious layer that balances the acidity of the marinara sauce.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Helps bind the ricotta mixture for a stable yet soft filling.
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped: Introduces a fresh, herbaceous note brightening the rich flavors.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural taste without overpowering.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a mild kick and complexity, rounding out the flavors nicely.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, bubbly topping cheese that everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish that browns beautifully on top.
- 26 oz marinara sauce: The tomatoey heart of the lasagna, tying everything together with bright acidity and herb flavor.
How to Make San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the noodles
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you assemble the dish. Boil the San Giorgio Lasagna noodles according to the package directions, aiming for tender but slightly firm (al dente). Once cooked, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep them from sticking together. This step sets the foundation for perfectly textured layers.
Step 2: Make the savory meat sauce
While the noodles cool, warm up a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. This mix sizzles and softens over 8-10 minutes, releasing wonderful aromas and melding the flavors. Drain any extra fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy, then stir in the marinara sauce and let the mixture simmer gently. This step ensures a rich and hearty sauce base that far surpasses store-bought alternatives.
Step 3: Prepare the ricotta cheese filling
In a medium bowl, whip together the ricotta cheese, beaten eggs, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. The eggs help give this creamy mixture structure inside the lasagna, while the parsley sneaks in a fresh burst. This easy but crucial mixture adds a layer of luscious, tender bite between the noodles and meat sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the layers
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and get ready to build your masterpiece. Start by spreading one-third of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom, followed by a layer of four noodles. Dollop and spread half of your ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle a cup of mozzarella evenly on top. Repeat this layering—meat sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella—one more time. For the final layer, add the remaining noodles and meat sauce, then top everything off with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top. The layers come together beautifully, promising cheesy, saucy goodness in every bite.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Place your assembled lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until it’s bubbling and the cheese is golden and melted. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 15 minutes; this allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serving up clean, satisfying portions. The aroma filling your kitchen here is just irresistible.
How to Serve San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh and colorful touch, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or extra parsley over the lasagna just before serving. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil can bring a nice sheen and extra richness. These simple garnishes bring an elegant and appetizing finish to every plate.
Side Dishes
The San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a Caesar salad or a crunchy green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also complement the richness perfectly, offering texture contrast and a burst of complementary flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or special nights, serve the lasagna in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a charming, personalized touch. Alternatively, layering the lasagna in shallow glass dishes lets you show off the colorful layers visually, creating an inviting centerpiece for the table that guests will admire before digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. This ensures the flavors continue to meld nicely, making your next meal just as delicious as the first.
Freezing
San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe freezes wonderfully. Assemble the lasagna in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap followed by foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without any prep time on busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, bake covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 20-25 minutes. Removing the foil in the last 5 minutes helps melt the cheese back to that perfect melty texture. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered loosely until heated evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for the sauce?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage can be great substitutes or additions to beef, giving you a slightly different flavor profile that still works beautifully with the other layers.
Do I have to pre-cook the San Giorgio Lasagna noodles?
Pre-cooking the noodles ensures the perfect tender texture throughout and makes layering easier, but if you find no-boil noodles labeled as “San Giorgio,” those can be used directly with slightly more sauce to help them soften while baking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a blend of your favorite vegetables and use a flavorful marinara sauce. The ricotta and cheese layers will maintain the creamy richness, making it just as satisfying.
How long should I let the lasagna rest before serving?
Letting the lasagna rest for about 15 minutes after baking helps it set properly, making it easier to cut into neat portions without falling apart while retaining all those luscious layers.
Can I prepare this recipe a day in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the lasagna the night before and keep it refrigerated. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold to ensure it heats all the way through.
Final Thoughts
Making the San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe is like inviting a little Italian warmth into your kitchen, sharing a meal that feels both classic and made with love. Its comforting layers, flavors, and textures are proof that simple ingredients, combined thoughtfully, can create culinary magic. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this recipe your own—it’s truly a dish that brings joy with every bite!
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San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
San Giorgio Lasagna is a classic Italian comfort food featuring layers of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and melted cheeses baked to perfection. This hearty dish combines flavorful ground beef simmered in marinara sauce with a blend of ricotta, eggs, and herbs, making it a satisfying meal for family and friends.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles
- 12 San Giorgio Lasagna noodles (pre-cooked)
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 26 oz marinara sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 32 oz Ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Toppings
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Noodles. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the San Giorgio Lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and set them aside for layering.
- Cook the Meat Sauce. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Pour in the marinara sauce, stir to combine, and reduce the heat to low. Allow the sauce to simmer gently while you prepare the cheese mixture.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten eggs, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This will add richness and flavor to your lasagna layers.
- Assemble the Lasagna. Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and start assembling your lasagna by spreading 1/3 of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom. Layer 4 noodles over the sauce, then spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top, followed by 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers: meat sauce, noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, and 1 cup mozzarella. Finish with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce, mozzarella cheese, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for a golden crust.
- Bake and Rest. Place the assembled lasagna into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Once done, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to settle, making it easier to cut and serve.
Notes
- Pre-cooked noodles save time, but if using regular lasagna noodles, boil until al dente before assembling.
- Drain excess fat from the meat to avoid greasy sauce.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps in clean slicing.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle extra parsley on top before serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat thoroughly before serving.
