When it comes to preparing a hearty and comforting Italian dish, lasagna is a top choice for many families. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a special gathering, lasagna offers layers of flavor, combining pasta, cheese, sauce, and meat into a delectable dish. If you’re looking for the perfect lasagna recipe, the San Giorgio lasagna recipe is a classic option that has stood the test of time. Known for its quality pasta, San Giorgio provides the foundation for a delicious and satisfying meal. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create the ultimate lasagna using San Giorgio products, ensuring every layer is packed with flavor.

Why San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe?

San Giorgio pasta has been a trusted name for over 100 years, known for producing high-quality pasta that cooks perfectly every time. The brand is synonymous with authentic Italian cuisine, offering a wide variety of pasta shapes. When making lasagna, the San Giorgio lasagna noodles provide the ideal texture to absorb the sauce while maintaining the perfect bite. With their signature pasta, you can create a lasagna that not only tastes amazing but also holds its shape when served.

Ingredients for the San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe

Before you begin preparing your San Giorgio lasagna recipe, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Lasagna:

• 12 San Giorgio lasagna noodles (uncooked)
• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 cups marinara or spaghetti sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

For the Sauce (if homemade):

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to cut acidity)
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions for Preparing San Giorgio Lasagna

Step 1: Preparing the Lasagna Noodles

The first step in making your San Giorgio lasagna recipe is preparing the noodles. San Giorgio lasagna noodles are traditionally boiled, but they offer a sturdy structure, perfect for layering.

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add the San Giorgio lasagna noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
3. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay them flat on a baking sheet or parchment paper to prevent sticking while you prepare the other components.

Step 2: Making the Meat Sauce

While your noodles are boiling, you can start on the meat sauce, which forms a flavorful base for your lasagna.

1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) to the skillet, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink.
4. Drain any excess fat from the skillet and return the pan to the heat.
5. Stir in 4 cups of marinara or spaghetti sauce (reserve 2 cups for later). Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Preparing the Cheese Mixture

The cheese layer is what makes lasagna rich and creamy. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses gives your lasagna the perfect cheesy consistency.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella, and ¾ cup of Parmesan cheese.
2. Add the eggs, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the cheese mixture.
3. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly combined. The eggs help bind the cheese mixture, ensuring it holds together when baked.

Step 4: Layering the Lasagna

Now it’s time to assemble the lasagna. The layers of noodles, meat sauce, and cheese mixture create the classic structure of this dish.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large lasagna pan or 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of the reserved marinara sauce evenly on the bottom.
3. Place 3 cooked San Giorgio lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping if necessary.
4. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by 1/3 of the meat sauce.
5. Repeat the layers two more times (noodles, cheese mixture, meat sauce), finishing with a layer of noodles on top.
6. Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the top layer of noodles.
7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

Step 5: Baking the Lasagna

Once your lasagna is assembled, it’s time to bake it to perfection.

1. Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese (you can use toothpicks to prop it up if needed).
2. Bake the lasagna for 25 minutes covered.
3. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
4. Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting. This resting time allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.

Step 6: Serving the San Giorgio Lasagna

Garnish your lasagna with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian meal. The combination of tender noodles, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Tips for Perfect San Giorgio Lasagna

• Noodle Cooking Tip: Don’t overcook the noodles during the boiling process. Lasagna noodles should be cooked al dente, as they will continue to soften during baking.
• Make It Ahead: Lasagna is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
• Vegetarian Option: If you want a meatless version, substitute the ground beef with a medley of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.
• Freezing Lasagna: Lasagna freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

The San Giorgio lasagna recipe is a classic, hearty dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for the perfect comfort meal, this lasagna is sure to satisfy you. With layers of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheeses, it’s a dish that’s not only easy to make but also guaranteed to impress. So next time you’re craving a taste of Italy, reach for San Giorgio lasagna noodles and create this timeless family favorite.