Mom's Meat Lasagna from Maggiano's features layers of tender pasta, savory seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy mozzarella and ricotta cheeses, baked to golden perfection with a bubbling melted cheese topping, delivering a hearty and comforting Italian classic.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) lasagna noodles
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 cups (475g) ricotta cheese
- 3 cups (340g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (90g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups (950ml) marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 large egg
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup (10g) fresh parsley
Use high-quality ricotta and mozzarella cheeses to achieve the creamy texture and authentic flavor essential to Mom's Meat Lasagna. Fresh garlic and onion bring out the rich aroma in the seasoned ground beef, so ensure they are finely chopped for even cooking. Marinara sauce with a balanced blend of herbs like dried basil and oregano enhances the savory depth of the dish. Cooking the lasagna noodles until just al dente helps maintain their structure through baking without becoming mushy. Your copycat Mom's Meat Lasagna from Maggiano's will capture the hearty, comforting taste with these carefully selected ingredients.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Dice onion and mince garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Add ground beef; cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in salt, pepper, basil, oregano, and 2 cups tomato sauce; simmer 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, egg, and chopped parsley.
- Add 1/2 cup Parmesan to ricotta mixture; mix well.
- Ladle a thin layer of tomato sauce into bottom of 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Layer noodles over sauce, slightly overlapping.
- Spread 1/3 of ricotta mixture evenly over noodles.
- Top with 1/3 of beef mixture.
- Sprinkle 1/3 of shredded mozzarella over meat.
- Repeat layers (noodles, ricotta, beef, mozzarella) two more times.
- Pour remaining tomato sauce evenly on top.
- Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Let lasagna rest 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Substitution
Mom's Meat Lasagna from Maggiano's copycat menu combines layers of tender pasta with seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheeses, creating a comforting Italian classic. You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for ground beef to vary the protein while maintaining flavor. If ricotta is unavailable, cottage cheese or mascarpone can be used as creamy alternatives without compromising texture. For a gluten-free option, replace traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free or thinly sliced zucchini strips. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil during baking to prevent the cheese from over-browning and ensure even cooking.
Tips
Ensure you salt the boiling water generously before cooking the lasagna noodles to prevent them from sticking and enhance flavor. When browning the ground beef, drain any excess fat thoroughly to avoid a greasy lasagna. Mix the ricotta cheese, egg, and fresh parsley thoroughly for a creamy, well-binding layer that adds moisture to your dish. Allowing your lasagna to rest for at least 15 minutes after baking helps it set properly, making it easier to slice and improving the overall texture.
Nutritions
Mom's Meat Lasagna from Maggiano's provides a rich source of protein through its ground beef and cheeses, essential for muscle repair and growth. The pasta layers deliver carbohydrates, offering a sustained energy release, while tomato sauce contributes antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health. Ricotta and mozzarella cheeses add calcium and vitamin D, beneficial for bone strength. You can enjoy this hearty Italian dish knowing it balances macronutrients and essential vitamins in each serving.
Storage
Store leftover Mom's Meat Lasagna in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. For longer storage, wrap portions tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Use your oven or microwave to reheat the lasagna evenly, ensuring the cheese melts thoroughly for the best taste experience.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation that boosts flavor, substitute ground beef with Italian sausage or a blend of beef and pork for richer taste and texture. You can replace ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or blend ricotta with mascarpone for extra creaminess. To add a vegetable layer, saute chopped spinach or mushrooms with the onion and garlic before adding the meat. Your lasagna can also be made ahead by assembling it a day in advance and refrigerating, then baking it directly from the fridge with an extra 10 minutes added to baking time.
Allergies
Mom's Meat Lasagna from Maggiano's contains common allergens such as dairy (ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses) and eggs, which may trigger reactions for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. Wheat from the lasagna noodles is a gluten source that could affect people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. If you have food allergies or sensitivities, carefully review the ingredients to ensure the dish is safe for your consumption.
Why this recipe?
Maggiano's Mom's Meat Lasagna is beloved for its rich layers of seasoned ground beef, flavorful marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella cheese that create a comforting and authentic Italian dining experience. The dish balances hearty textures and vibrant tastes, making it a favorite among patrons seeking satisfying, home-style meals crafted from high-quality ingredients. You can recreate this classic recipe at home to enjoy the same indulgent flavors, control ingredient quality, and customize seasoning to match your preferences. Copycat attempts capture the essence of Maggiano's iconic lasagna, allowing you to savor restaurant-quality comfort food in your own kitchen.