Lasagna Classico from Olive Garden features layers of rich ricotta cheese, savory Italian sausage, seasoned ground beef, and tangy marinara sauce, all baked between tender pasta sheets and topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan, delivering a hearty and comforting Italian classic.
Equipments
- Large baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cheese grater
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle
- Aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt
- Black pepper
When preparing Lasagna Classico, use high-quality Italian sausage and freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles until al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft after baking. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley enhance the dish's aroma, while the combination of ricotta cheese and egg helps create a creamy texture. Season the meat mixture well with salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil to balance the rich tomato marinara sauce. You can recreate the hearty, comforting taste of the Olive Garden Lasagna Classico by following this copycat recipe closely.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook Italian sausage and ground beef over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add marinara sauce to meat mixture; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper; mix well.
- Ladle a small amount of meat sauce into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Layer 3-4 noodles over sauce.
- Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over noodles.
- Sprinkle 1/3 of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses over ricotta layer.
- Top with 1/3 of meat sauce.
- Repeat layering (noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, meat sauce) two more times.
- Finish with a final layer of noodles, meat sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let lasagna cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Substitution
Lasagna Classico from Olive Garden copycat recipes often allow for substitutions like ground turkey or chicken in place of Italian sausage and beef to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor. You can swap traditional ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a lighter texture or use pre-shredded mozzarella and parmesan to save preparation time, though freshly grated cheese provides better melting and taste. If fresh herbs like parsley or basil aren't available, dried herbs can be used by adjusting quantities to avoid overpowering the dish. When cooking the noodles, consider no-boil lasagna sheets to simplify the process and reduce prep time. Your choice of marinara sauce can be store-bought or homemade, with homemade providing a richer, fresher flavor to enhance the overall dish.
Tips
Ensure you fully drain the cooked lasagna noodles to prevent excess water from making your dish watery. When browning the Italian sausage and ground beef, drain the fat well to avoid greasy layers within the lasagna. Mixing fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, and basil into the ricotta cheese enhances the flavor profile significantly. Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first baking stage helps melt the cheese evenly without burning, so be sure to remove it towards the end for a golden, bubbly finish.
Nutritions
Lasagna Classico from Olive Garden provides a substantial source of protein from Italian sausage, ground beef, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, supporting muscle maintenance and repair. The combination of pasta noodles and marinara sauce offers carbohydrates and fiber, fueling your energy needs throughout the day. This dish also contains essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium from the cheeses and iron from the meats, contributing to strong bones and oxygen transport in the blood. Moderation is key due to its relatively high fat and sodium content, which can impact heart health if consumed excessively.
Storage
Store your cooked lasagna in an airtight container or tightly wrap it with aluminum foil to preserve moisture and prevent odors from contaminating the flavor. Refrigerate promptly and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and safety. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers, where they can last up to 3 months without significant loss in taste or texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground turkey for Italian sausage and beef to create a leaner version of this lasagna classico without sacrificing flavor. For a vegetarian alternative, replace the meat sauce with a hearty mixture of sauteed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs. Consider using no-boil lasagna noodles to save preparation time and avoid overcooking during baking. To enhance creaminess, fold a small amount of shredded provolone cheese into the ricotta mixture before layering.
Allergies
Lasagna Classico contains multiple common allergens including dairy from ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, as well as eggs used in the ricotta mixture. The pasta noodles typically contain wheat, a gluten source that may trigger reactions in people with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. You should check all ingredient labels carefully and consult with your healthcare provider if you have known allergies to dairy, eggs, or gluten before enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
The Lasagna Classico from Olive Garden is celebrated for its rich layers of seasoned ground beef, Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, all perfectly baked with a robust tomato sauce. Its balanced combination of hearty flavors and comforting textures makes it a favorite for those craving authentic Italian cuisine. Trying to make a copycat version allows you to customize ingredients, control quality, and recreate the beloved taste in your own kitchen. Your efforts in crafting this classic dish provide a delicious reward that rivals the restaurant experience.