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Festive Holiday Lasagna

This holiday-inspired lasagna features layers of al dente noodles, savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and warm holiday spices like nutmeg and sage. Baked until bubbling and golden, it offers a comforting, slightly chaotic presentation full of rich flavors and festive aroma, perfect for celebrating with loved ones.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine holiday
Servings 8
Calories 540 kcal

Equipment

  • Large baking dish
  • Saucepan
  • Sharp Knife
  • Ladle or large spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 12 pieces lasagna noodles al dente, cooked and drained
  • 1 pound ground beef preferably lean
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese for creaminess
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg ground, for warmth
  • 1 teaspoon sage fresh or dried, chopped
  • 2 cups tomato sauce with a splash of red wine
  • 1/4 cup olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 bunch fresh basil or parsley chopped, for brightness

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and gather all your tools and ingredients for a smooth assembly.
    Preheat your oven to 180°C
  • Cook the lasagna noodles in boiling salted water until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
    Cook the lasagna noodles
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 1 minute.
    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat
  • Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with your spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper if desired.
    Add ground beef to the skillet
  • Stir in chopped sage and a pinch of nutmeg into the beef mixture, letting the aromas meld for a minute.
    Stir in chopped sage and a pinch of nutmeg into the beef mixture
  • Pour in the tomato sauce with a splash of red wine, stir well, and simmer for 10 minutes until thickened and flavorful.
    Pour in the tomato sauce
  • Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of your baking dish, then layer with noodles, followed by a spread of ricotta, the beef mixture, and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce and cheese on top.
    Spread a thin layer of sauce
  • Cover the assembled lasagna with foil and bake for 25 minutes until bubbling and heated through.
    Cover the assembled lasagna
  • Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
    Remove the foil and bake for another
  • Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes to set before slicing. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
    Let the lasagna rest
  • Slice into squares, serve, and enjoy the comforting, festive flavors with friends or family.
    Slice into squares