Mama Mia Lasagne

prep time:: 1.5 hours
total time:: 3 hours +

Makes 12 servings

This classic recipe came from my friend Eileen, who hails from a large Italian family. This has to be the best lasagne ever!

ingredients

3/4 lb ground beef
3/4 lb. italian sausage (we like it hot)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, diced
3 T olive oil
1-16 oz can tomato sauce
1-6 oz can tomato paste
1/2 c each red wine and water
1 t each pepper, sugar, and oregano
1 lb (2 c) ricotta cheese
1/2 lb mozzarella, grated
1/2 c grated parmesan cheese
12 oz lasagne noodles

directions

Saute onions in oil until soft. Add beef, sausage, and garlic and cook until brown. Stir in tomato sauce, paste, wine, and water. Add oregano, salt and pepper to taste, and sugar. Stir until mixed. Cover and simmer approximately 1.5 hours, or cook in a slow cooker on low heat for 5-8 hours. Remove from heat. Cook noodles in boiling water until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water. Arrange one third of noodles in bottom of a deep 9x13" pan. Spread one third of meat sauce over noodles. Top with one third of ricotta, mozarella, and parmesan. Repeat layering two more times. Bake uncovered in 350 degree oven for 30-40 minutes or until sauce is boiling and cheese is bubbly. Cook longer if necessary. Remove from oven and allow to sit for 10-15 minutes before cutting and serving.

notes

This recipe is worth the effort! Although it is time consuming, this is the perfect recipe to feed a large crowd and is even better the next day. It can be made in advance and refrigerated before baking, then popped into the oven before guests arrive.

Source: Eileen