Mom's Lasagna from Maggiano's Little Italy features layers of rich ricotta cheese, savory ground beef, tangy marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella, all baked between tender sheets of pasta to create a hearty and comforting Italian classic.
Equipments
- Large baking dish
- Large skillet
- Medium mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt
- Black pepper
Use fresh quality ground beef for a richer flavor and avoid pre-seasoned varieties to control the salt content. When selecting marinara sauce, choose one with a balanced acidity to complement the creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella layers. Make sure to cook lasagna noodles until just al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy after baking. Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano for an authentic Italian taste, adjusting quantities based on your preference. Your homemade dish will closely replicate Mom's Lasagna from Maggiano's Little Italy copycat menu with these ingredient tips.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook lasagna noodles until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion; sauté until translucent.
- Add garlic; cook until fragrant.
- Add ground beef; cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in 2 cups marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, egg, chopped parsley, and half the Parmesan; mix well.
- Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce on bottom of baking dish.
- Layer 4 lasagna noodles lengthwise over the sauce.
- Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over noodles.
- Spoon one-third of the meat sauce over ricotta.
- Sprinkle one-third of mozzarella on top.
- Repeat layering two more times: noodles, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella.
- Top with remaining noodles and remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil; bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and cheese is browned.
- Let lasagna cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Substitution
Mom's Lasagna from Maggiano's Little Italy copycat menu captures the essence of a traditional Italian dish with its rich combination of ricotta, ground beef, marinara, and mozzarella layered between pasta sheets. If you need to substitute, ground turkey or Italian sausage can replace beef for a different flavor profile without sacrificing texture. In case you don't have ricotta, cottage cheese mixed with a beaten egg works well as an alternative to maintain creaminess. Fresh herbs like basil and oregano can be swapped with dried versions, but reduce quantities by about one-third to avoid overpowering the dish. When assembling, make sure your pasta sheets are fully cooked but still firm to hold the layers together during baking for your perfect lasagna.
Tips
Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles until just al dente to avoid them becoming too soft during baking. When browning the ground beef, drain excess fat thoroughly to prevent a greasy sauce. Mix the ricotta cheese with the egg and parsley well, as this binds the cheese layer and adds flavor. Let your lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set and make serving easier.
Nutritions
Mom's Lasagna from Maggiano's Little Italy provides a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, with 1 lb of ground beef supplying high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth. The ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses add calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health, while the olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Fresh herbs like parsley and garlic offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to boost your immune system. Prepared with whole ingredients and a variety of nutrients, this dish offers a nourishing and satisfying Italian meal for your family.
Storage
Store your Mom's Lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent drying. For longer storage, wrap tightly with aluminum foil and place in the freezer for up to three months, allowing it to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through for the best taste and texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap ground beef for Italian sausage or ground turkey to add different flavor profiles and reduce fat content. Substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or mascarpone for creamier texture variations. For a vegetable-packed version, layer sauteed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms between the noodles to enhance nutritional value. Try using no-boil lasagna noodles to save time and simplify the preparation process.
Allergies
Mom's Lasagna from Maggiano's Little Italy contains multiple common allergens such as dairy from ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, as well as eggs. If you have a milk or egg allergy, consuming this dish could trigger allergic reactions ranging from mild to severe. Always check ingredient labels carefully and consult with your healthcare provider if you have food sensitivities or allergies before enjoying this Italian classic.
Why this recipe?
Maggiano's Little Italy's Mom's Lasagna menu is cherished for its rich layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, delivering an authentic Italian comfort food experience. The dish combines high-quality ingredients and a traditional family recipe that creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. You can recreate this beloved classic at home to enjoy the genuine taste of Italian cuisine while customizing it to your personal preferences. Making the copycat version allows you to savor the heartfelt, homestyle appeal that makes Mom's Lasagna a standout favorite.