How to make lasagne with jars
Lasagne is a classic Italian dish that is loved by many around the world. It typically consists of layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese, creating a delicious and comforting meal. Traditional lasagne recipes can be quite complex and time-consuming, but there is a shortcut that can help you achieve the same incredible taste with less effort – using jars.
By using pre-made jars of pasta sauce and white sauce, you can cut down on the time it takes to prepare lasagne without compromising on taste. This method is perfect for those busy nights when you don’t have time to make everything from scratch but still want to enjoy a homemade lasagne.
Using jars also allows for flexibility in the types of sauces you use. You can experiment with different flavors and brands to find your favorite combination. Whether you prefer a traditional tomato-based sauce or a creamy white sauce, there are plenty of options to choose from to suit your taste.
However, it’s important to note that using jars doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality. There are high-quality pasta and white sauces available that can rival homemade versions. When selecting your sauces, look for ones that use real ingredients and have a rich, flavorful taste.
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making lasagne with jars. Follow along, and in no time, you’ll have a delicious lasagne ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Lasagne with Jars
Ingredients:
– 1 jar of marinara sauce
– 1 jar of alfredo sauce
– 9 lasagne pasta sheets
– 1 cup of ricotta cheese
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 pound of ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey)
– 1 small onion, finely diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened.
Step 2: Layer the Lasagne
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Place 3 lasagne pasta sheets on top of the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the pasta sheets. Then, ladle a layer of meat sauce over the ricotta cheese.
Add another layer of 3 lasagne pasta sheets on top of the meat sauce. Spread half of the alfredo sauce over the pasta sheets. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the alfredo sauce.
Repeat the layers once more, starting with marinara sauce and ending with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Step 3: Bake the Lasagne
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 and bubbly and the lasagne sheets are cooked through.
Let the lasagne cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Note: You can add your favourite vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, to the meat sauce for extra flavour and nutrition.
Gather the Ingredients
Before you start making lasagne with jars, you’ll need to gather the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Lasagne noodles: You’ll need a 8-9 lasagne noodles, depending on the size of your baking dish.
- Jarred pasta sauce: Choose your favourite jarred pasta sauce brand, or make your own for a more personalized taste.
- Ricotta cheese: You’ll need a 15-ounce container of ricotta cheese for the filling.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: You’ll need about 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese for layering and topping.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: You’ll need about 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for topping.
- Eggs: You’ll need 2 large eggs to bind the ricotta filling.
- Italian seasoning: You can use a store-bought Italian seasoning blend or make your own using herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme.
- Salt and pepper: You’ll need these to taste for seasoning.
- Optional ingredients: Feel free to add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or veggies like spinach or mushrooms to customize your lasagne.
Gather these ingredients before you begin preparing lasagne with jars for a smooth and effortless cooking experience.
Layer the Lasagne
Once you have prepared your meat sauce, béchamel sauce, and pasta, you are ready to start layering your lasagne. Follow these steps to create delicious and perfectly layered lasagne:
1. Start with a Thin Layer of Meat Sauce
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a non-stick baking dish. This will prevent the pasta from sticking and add flavor to the bottom layer.
2. Add a Layer of Pasta Sheets
Place a layer of pasta sheets over the meat sauce, making sure they cover the entire bottom of the dish. Break the pasta sheets if needed to fit.
3. Spread Béchamel Sauce
Spread a layer of béchamel sauce over the pasta sheets, ensuring that it is evenly distributed.
4. Add Another Layer of Meat Sauce
Add another layer of meat sauce on top of the béchamel sauce. Make sure it is evenly spread and covers the entire dish.
5. Repeat the Layers
Continue the layering process by adding another layer of pasta sheets, followed by béchamel sauce and meat sauce. Repeat these layers until all of the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
6. Top with Cheese
Sprinkle grated cheese over the final layer of meat sauce to add flavor and create a golden crust.
As you layer the lasagne, be sure to press down lightly on each layer to compact everything together. This will help the lasagne cook evenly and hold its shape when serving.
Once you have finished layering, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven according to the recipe instructions. After baking, let the lasagne rest for a few minutes before cutting into it to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy your homemade lasagne made with jarred sauces!
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