San Giorgio Lasagna

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The San Giorgio Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish packed with layers of flavor, featuring tender pasta sheets enveloped with a hearty beef sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella. Each forkful is a perfect blend of savory meat, tangy marinara, and cheesy delight, making it a favorite comfort food for any occasion.

Perfect for feeding a crowd, this lasagna brings warmth and togetherness to the table. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home. The golden-brown cheesy top and rich filling make this dish a show-stopper that everyone will love.

Full Recipe:

12 San Giorgio Lasagna noodles
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
32 ounces ricotta cheese
2 eggs
1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
26 ounces pasta sauce (preferably marinara)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the meat is browned and crumbled, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Add the pasta sauce to the meat mixture, stirring to combine.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten eggs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 1/3 of the meat sauce. Add a layer of lasagna noodles (about 4 noodles per layer). Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles and sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella.
Repeat with another layer: 1/3 meat sauce, noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, and 1 cup of mozzarella.
For the final layer, place the remaining noodles, meat sauce, mozzarella cheese, and sprinkle grated Parmesan on top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown on top.
Let it sit for 15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Calories: 1000 kcal | Servings: 8

Background & History of Lasagna

Lasagna, one of the most beloved Italian comfort foods, traces its roots back to ancient Greece and Rome. The dish we know today took form in Italy, particularly in the Emilia-Romagna region, where classic ingredients like Bolognese sauce, béchamel, and pasta were layered into a casserole. The San Giorgio Lasagna, with its focus on rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, is a modern adaptation of this traditional dish. It’s a family-favorite and brings together Italian flavors in a way that’s both filling and comforting.

Ingredient Breakdown & Variations

San Giorgio Lasagna Noodles: These noodles are the backbone of the recipe. San Giorgio’s pasta provides a sturdy structure to hold all the layers together while maintaining the right texture when baked.
Ground Beef, Onion, & Garlic: The classic trio forms the flavor base for the sauce. You could substitute half of the ground beef with Italian sausage for an extra kick, or use ground turkey for a lighter version.
Ricotta Cheese, Eggs, & Parsley Mixture: This creamy mix adds a velvety layer between the pasta and sauce. The eggs help bind the cheese together, while the parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous touch. For a twist, consider mixing in some chopped spinach for added color and nutrients.
Mozzarella & Parmesan Cheese: Mozzarella adds a gooey, melty texture to the layers, while Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor that complements the dish. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for different flavor profiles.
Pasta Sauce: A classic marinara sauce works beautifully, but you can make it your own by using a chunky vegetable sauce, a spicy arrabbiata, or even a meatier Bolognese. Homemade sauce will always elevate the flavor, but store-bought works just as well in a pinch.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Boiling the Noodles: Cook the noodles al dente (slightly firm) so they don’t become too soft when baked. Rinsing them under cold water after boiling helps prevent sticking.
Layering the Lasagna: Proper layering is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Start with sauce at the bottom of the dish, followed by noodles, ricotta mix, and cheese, then repeat.
Baking: Baking the lasagna at 350°F for 30-35 minutes allows the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together. For a golden-brown top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
Resting Time: Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 15 minutes after baking. This helps the layers firm up, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

Serve this lasagna with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to balance the richness of the dish.
A warm loaf of garlic bread or bruschetta can add a crispy texture that contrasts with the soft layers of the lasagna.
For beverages, red wines like Chianti, Merlot, or Sangiovese pair beautifully with the tomato sauce and meat, while sparkling water with lemon or iced tea makes for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.

Make-Ahead & Storage Instructions

Make-Ahead: This lasagna is perfect for meal prepping. Assemble the layers ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the assembled (but unbaked) lasagna for up to 3 months; just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
Leftovers & Storage: Once baked, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, cover and bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual slices for a quick meal.
Freezing Cooked Lasagna: You can also freeze leftover baked lasagna. Slice it into portions, wrap tightly in foil, and place in a freezer-safe container. Reheat from frozen in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition & Dietary Considerations

This classic San Giorgio Lasagna recipe is hearty and filling, providing around 1000 kcal per serving. It’s a great option for those looking for a satisfying, protein-rich dish. For those with dietary preferences or restrictions:

Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for a mix of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
Lower Carb Option: Substitute the lasagna noodles with zucchini or eggplant slices to reduce carbs.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles, available at most grocery stores, to cater to those with gluten sensitivity or Celiac disease.

Lasagna for Any Occasion

This San Giorgio Lasagna is perfect for a wide variety of occasions. Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a holiday gathering, a potluck, or even a meal to share with a neighbor, this lasagna is versatile and universally loved. Its make-ahead and freeze-friendly nature make it a great choice for busy weeknights or for serving a crowd.

Regional Variations & Italian Heritage

While the classic lasagna most commonly associated with Italian cuisine is from the Emilia-Romagna region (known for its ragu alla bolognese and béchamel), different regions in Italy have their own unique take on this beloved dish. For example:

Neapolitan Lasagna (Lasagna Napoletana): In Naples, lasagna is often made with a mix of meats like Italian sausage and meatballs, along with creamy ricotta and hard-boiled eggs. The use of fresh basil and mozzarella di bufala is common, creating a richer and more complex flavor profile.
Sicilian Lasagna (Lasagna alla Siciliana): Often includes slices of fried eggplant, local cheese varieties like caciocavallo, and sometimes even hard-boiled eggs, giving the dish an extra layer of richness and regional character.
Vegetarian Lasagna (Lasagna Verde): Some parts of Italy celebrate vegetables in their lasagna, replacing meat sauce with sautéed spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or other seasonal vegetables, often layered with pesto and béchamel for a lighter twist.

The San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe leans towards the more widely known northern Italian style, focused on a flavorful meat sauce and rich layers of cheese.

Customization & Add-Ons

The beauty of lasagna lies in its versatility. Here are some ways to adapt and enhance your San Giorgio Lasagna:

Extra Veggies: Add a layer of cooked spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to increase the nutrient content and flavor complexity.
Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil can add an aromatic element to the meat sauce and cheese mixture. A pinch of nutmeg in the ricotta mixture also adds a traditional Italian touch.
Spicy Kick: If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Cheese Variations: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, adding provolone, asiago, or even a sprinkle of smoked gouda can deepen the cheese flavor. For creaminess, a dollop of béchamel sauce on top of the layers can make your lasagna extra luscious.

Cooking Techniques & Tips

Perfect Meat Sauce:

Seasoning Layer by Layer: When browning the ground beef, season the meat with salt, pepper, and any other spices before adding the sauce. This ensures the flavors are well developed.
Sauce Consistency: The sauce should be slightly thickened before layering, so it doesn’t make the lasagna watery. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it reaches the right consistency. Adding a small splash of red wine or a dash of balsamic vinegar can bring depth to the flavor.
Fat-Free Option: To make the dish lighter, you can use lean ground beef, or even ground chicken or turkey. Ensure that any excess fat is drained to prevent the lasagna from being greasy.

Lasagna Noodle Tips:

No-Boil Noodles: If you’re short on time, opt for no-boil lasagna noodles. They soften beautifully during baking by absorbing moisture from the sauce, resulting in tender layers.
Fresh Pasta Sheets: For an even more authentic Italian touch, use fresh pasta sheets if available. They only need a quick blanch in boiling water before layering.

Layering & Baking for the Perfect Texture:

Layering for Flavor: The secret to a great lasagna is ensuring even layers. Start with a thin layer of meat sauce to prevent sticking, then alternate with noodles, ricotta mix, meat sauce, and mozzarella.
Baking Covered & Uncovered: Bake your lasagna covered with foil for the first 20-25 minutes to keep it moist and allow the flavors to meld. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the top to become beautifully golden and slightly crisp.
Resting & Serving: Always let the lasagna rest for about 15-20 minutes after baking. This step allows the cheese to set and the layers to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation

Garnish for Freshness: Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Lasagna Presentation Ideas: Serve lasagna in its baking dish for a rustic family-style meal, or plate individual slices with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a more elegant presentation.
Accompaniments: For a full Italian-inspired meal, consider pairing the lasagna with:
- Antipasto Salad: Mixed greens with olives, roasted peppers, cherry tomatoes, and a simple olive oil and vinegar dressing.
- Garlic Butter Breadsticks or Focaccia: A warm, crispy side to soak up the rich meat sauce.
- Classic Minestrone Soup or Tomato Basil Soup: A warm, comforting soup balances the heartiness of the lasagna.

Aromatic & Flavorful Enhancements

For a deeper flavor profile, you can introduce:

White or Red Wine: Adding wine to the meat sauce during the cooking process enhances the flavor. A dry red wine like Chianti or a white like Pinot Grigio can be used.
Pecorino Romano Cheese: For a sharper, more pronounced cheese flavor, substitute or mix Parmesan with Pecorino Romano.
Herbed Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra crunch, sprinkle a mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and a bit of olive oil on top during the last few minutes of baking.

Dietary & Health Adaptations

Dairy-Free Lasagna: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives like almond ricotta and plant-based mozzarella. A creamy cashew sauce can also substitute for the ricotta mixture.
Vegan Lasagna: Replace the meat with lentils or crumbled tofu, and use vegan cheeses for a plant-based version. A layer of roasted vegetables adds extra flavor and texture.
Lower Calorie Version: To reduce calories, use part-skim ricotta, low-fat mozzarella, and lean ground meat. You can also add more vegetables to the layers for a bulkier yet lower-calorie lasagna.

Cultural Significance & Family Traditions

Lasagna is a dish that often finds its way onto Italian Sunday dinner tables, holidays, and family gatherings. It represents more than just a meal—it’s an experience shared with loved ones, filled with warmth and tradition. Many families have their own secret lasagna recipes passed down through generations, often with unique touches like adding sausage, béchamel sauce, or specific herbs.

The San Giorgio Lasagna, with its straightforward ingredients and classic preparation, fits perfectly into this tradition, offering a hearty dish that’s both comforting and flavorful.

Perfect for Special Occasions & Meal Planning

This lasagna makes an excellent main course for:

Holidays & Festive Gatherings: A staple for Christmas, Easter, or even Thanksgiving. A large pan of lasagna is easy to serve and sure to please a crowd.
Potluck & Parties: Lasagna travels well, and it’s easy to reheat, making it a favorite for potluck events.
Meal Prep & Batch Cooking: Make a large batch, portion it out, and freeze individual servings for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

The San Giorgio Lasagna is a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both comforting and versatile. With layers of tender pasta, flavorful meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, it’s the perfect main course for family dinners, special gatherings, or simple weeknight meals. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or customize it with different ingredients, this lasagna is sure to bring warmth and joy to any table. A true Italian comfort food that never fails to impress!