Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner table into an Italian restaurant-worthy experience! This Garlic Shallot Red and White Lasagna isn't just another pasta dish – it's a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Imagine layers of perfectly cooked noodles, rich marinara sauce, and a decadent blend of cheeses that melt in your mouth, all infused with the aromatic magic of garlic and shallots. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is your ticket to becoming a kitchen superstar!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, laying noodles flat to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped shallots, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Add dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Begin layering the lasagna: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Place the first layer of lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Pour marinara sauce over the cheese layer, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle some of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layering process with another layer of noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, sauce, and cheese.
- For the final layer, place the last set of noodles, top with remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn't touch the cheese. Bake for 40 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes cutting easier.
- Slice into portions, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Noodle Preparation is Key: Always cook lasagna noodles just until al dente. Slightly undercooking prevents them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Cheese Mixing Hack: Let ricotta cheese come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smoother, more even texture.
- Layer Like a Pro: Start and end with sauce to prevent the bottom from drying out and the top from burning.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes cutting much easier.
- Cheese Distribution Tip: Mix different types of cheese for a more complex flavor profile. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a perfect balance.
- Foil Technique: Cover with foil for the first part of baking to prevent excessive browning, then remove to get that perfect golden-brown cheese topping.
- Fresh Herb Finish: If possible, garnish with fresh basil or parsley just before serving to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 120mg
