Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles: Cook these until al dente to ensure they hold up during baking.
- 1 pound of Italian sausage or ground beef: This adds the hearty, meaty base for your dish.
- 1 onion, finely diced: Provides a sweet, aromatic flavor.
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavor.
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional): This adds a crunch and sweetness.
- 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes: The base for your tomato sauce.
- 1 can (14 ounces) of tomato sauce: Adds to the richness of the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano: A classic herb for Italian cooking.
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil: Another staple herb that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a spicy kick to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, providing gooey goodness.
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese: Offers a creamy, rich layer.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and allow for easy serving.
- Cook the Meat:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high.
- Brown the Italian sausage or ground beef until it’s fully cooked and crumbly. If using sausage, make sure to break it up as it cooks.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- To the skillet, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and optional bell pepper.
- Cook until the vegetables are softened and the mixture is fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, optional red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavors.
- Boil the Lasagna Noodles:
- While the sauce simmers, cook the lasagna noodles in boiling water just until al dente.
- Drain and set aside to cool slightly, which will make handling easier.
- Assemble the Pizzagna:
- Begin with a layer of meat sauce in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
- Follow with a layer of lasagna noodles.
- Spread a layer of ricotta cheese over the noodles.
- Sprinkle a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the ricotta.
- Repeat the layering (sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella and Parmesan) until all components are used, finishing with a generous layer of the cheeses on top.
- Bake the Pizzagna:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Remove the Pizzagna from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves to enhance flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve your Pizzagna hot, paired with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal. Enjoy your delicious creation that marries the comforting textures and flavors of lasagna with the beloved taste of pizza!
