📖 Instructions

1. Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your lasagna cooks evenly. Next, lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Nobody wants a stuck lasagna!
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess grease. Trust me, this step is *crucial* for preventing a greasy lasagna. And nobody likes a greasy lasagna.
3. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. The smell alone is worth it, isn't it?
4. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor. Can you already imagine the taste?
5. Cook the Noodles: While the sauce simmers, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Drain them well and set aside. I usually add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent them from sticking together. It works like a charm!
6. Mix the Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix well. This cheese mixture is what makes lasagna so incredibly creamy and delicious. Don't skimp on the parsley!
7. Layer It Up: Now, for the fun part! Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping if necessary. I usually use about 3-4 noodles per layer, depending on the size of my dish.
8. Cheese, Please!: Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Then, sprinkle with one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese. The more cheese, the better, right?
9. Repeat Layers: Repeat layers of sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese two more times, ending with a final layer of sauce and mozzarella cheese on top. This layering process is what gives lasagna its signature look and taste.
10. Bake Time: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
11. Let It Rest: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the lasagna to set and makes it easier to cut into neat slices. Trust me, patience is key here!
12. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the lasagna into squares and serve hot. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. You deserve it!