Gathering around the dinner table with a homemade meal always sparks warmth, but nothing quite beats the nostalgia of a classic Italian-American dish. Let me take you on a journey of flavors with my Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna, a recipe that takes comfort food to the next level. It’s ideal for those busy weeknights or for impressing guests during cozy gatherings, as it allows you to prepare in advance without compromising on taste. Packed with a rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and stretchy mozzarella, each layer tells a story of comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a casual cook, this delectable lasagna is sure to evoke joy and contentment. Are you ready to dive into this hearty masterpiece? Let’s get cooking!
Why is This Lasagna a Must-Try?
Delicious Layers: Each bite reveals rich flavors from the meat sauce and creamy ricotta, making it an indulgent experience.
Easy to Prepare: Perfect for those who appreciate homemade comfort without spending all day in the kitchen.
Make Ahead Magic: You can assemble it a day in advance, allowing you to enjoy gatherings without stress.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone around the table.
Customizable Options: Vegan or meat-loving, you can easily switch ingredients—try different cheeses or keep it vegetarian with roasted vegetables!
This Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna is not just a meal; it’s a joyful celebration of Italian-American flavors that brings everyone together.
Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- Italian Sausage – Adds rich flavor and depth; swap with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Ground Beef – Provides a hearty base; can be replaced with ground lamb or chicken.
- Onion – Enhances the sauce’s base flavor; yellow onion is preferred, though shallots work too.
- Garlic – Infuses the meat sauce with aroma; fresh is best, but jarred minced garlic can suffice.
- Crushed Tomatoes (2 cans, 28 oz each) – Forms the bulk of the sauce; you can crush whole tomatoes by hand, if preferred.
- Tomato Sauce (1 can, 15 oz) – Complements crushed tomatoes for consistency; passata is a good substitute.
- Tomato Paste (1 can, 6 oz) – Intensifies tomato flavor; optional, though it adds richness.
- Water (½ cup) – Helps balance sauce thickness; broth can lend more flavor.
- Dried Basil (1 tbsp) – Adds classic Italian herb flavor; use fresh basil as a substitution, adjusting as needed.
- Italian Seasoning Blend (1 tsp) – Provides a mix of herbs; individual herbs like oregano and thyme can replace it if preferred.
- Fennel Seed (½ tsp) – Gives a traditional sausage flair; omit if you’d like to keep it simple.
- Granulated Sugar (2 tbsp) – Balances acidity in tomatoes; honey or agave syrup can be used instead.
- Black Pepper (¼ tsp) & Table Salt (1 tbsp) – Essential seasonings to enhance the dish’s flavors.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped) – Adds freshness; basil makes a great replacement or you can omit it completely.
For the Cheese Mixture
- Ricotta Cheese (16 oz) – Provides a creamy texture; for a lower-fat option, use cottage cheese.
- Egg (1 whole) – Binds the ricotta; can be omitted for a vegan alternative, though texture may change.
For Assembly
- Lasagna Pasta Sheets (12) – Essential for structure; no-boil sheets can save time.
- Shredded Mozzarella (16 oz) – Melts beautifully on top; other melting cheeses like provolone work well too.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup) – Adds a delicious salty bite; nutritional yeast can serve as a dairy-free alternative.
This hearty and rich Maggiano’s lasagna is a fantastic meal that will bring joy and comfort to your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage and 1 pound of ground beef, cooking until browned, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat. This rich meat sauce will form the heart of your Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in two 28-ounce cans of crushed tomatoes, a 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, and a 6-ounce can of tomato paste. Add ½ cup of water along with 1 tablespoon dried basil, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon fennel seed, 2 tablespoons sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 90 minutes, allowing flavors to deepen and meld beautifully.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta
In a mixing bowl, combine 16 ounces of ricotta cheese, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 whole egg, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy layer will bring a delightful richness to your Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna.
Step 4: Prepare the Pasta Sheets
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add 12 lasagna pasta sheets and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked al dente, drain the sheets and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay them flat to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spoon 1 cup of meat sauce to cover the bottom. Layer 3 pasta sheets, followed by one-third of the ricotta mixture, and sprinkle with 8 ounces of shredded mozzarella and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layering process twice more, finishing with a final layer of meat sauce and remaining cheeses.
Step 6: Bake the Lasagna
Cover your assembled Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25 minutes. After this, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. The layers should meld together beautifully during this time.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, take the lasagna out of the oven and allow it to cool for 15 minutes. This resting period lets the layers set for easier slicing. Cut into generous portions to serve and revel in the rich, comforting flavors of your homemade Maggiano’s Lasagna, ready to delight everyone gathered around your table.
Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize your lasagna experience with these tasty twists and swaps that will satisfy your cravings.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace the meat with a medley of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a vibrant, hearty flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or layer some spicy sausage for that extra heat.
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Experiment with a blend of mozzarella, fontina, and gouda cheeses for a rich and complex cheesy experience.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or zucchini slices instead of traditional pasta sheets to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute ricotta with a mix of blended tofu and nutritional yeast for a creamy texture without the dairy.
- Herb-Infused Sauce: Add fresh herbs like thyme or sage to the sauce to elevate the classic flavors and give it a fragrant, earthy touch.
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a layer of pesto between the ricotta and pasta for a nutty, aromatic addition that your guests will love.
Feel free to try these variations to create a Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna that feels uniquely yours, and don’t forget to check out options for vegan lasagna and other comforting Italian dishes like chicken parmesan for inspiration!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna ahead of time is a fantastic way to save effort on busy weeknights! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. For optimal flavor, I recommend preparing the meat sauce and cheese mixture a day ahead; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, bake the lasagna directly from the fridge, but increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through. Just like freshly made, it’ll delight your family with its rich and comforting taste!
What to Serve with Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna
Picture a cozy dining experience where every bite creates a melody of flavors, perfect companions to your rich Maggiano’s lasagna.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, crisp exterior and soft inside provide a fantastic contrast, perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce.
- Caesar Salad: With its crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and zesty Parmesan, this classic salad adds freshness and a bit of crunch to balance the richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Choose vibrant seasonal vegetables; their caramelization enhances sweetness, providing a delightful textural contrast.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil cut through the heaviness, creating a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzle this over your plated lasagna for an added depth of flavor that elevates the dish further.
- Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red complements the savory flavors beautifully while enhancing your dining experience.
- Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert; its coffee flavors offer a lovely contrast to the savory lasagna.
Each dish creates its own story while complementing the rich Maggiano’s lasagna, ensuring the meal is unforgettable!
Expert Tips for Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna
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Perfect Sauce Simmering: Let your sauce simmer for a full 90 minutes to deepen its rich flavors. This step is crucial for achieving the best taste in your lasagna.
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Pasta Cooking: Avoid overcooking the lasagna sheets, as they will continue to cook while baking. Aim for al dente to keep a pleasant texture in your rich Maggiano’s lasagna.
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Layering Precision: Ensure you spread your layers evenly for consistent flavor and easier slicing. Don’t skimp on the ricotta or cheese layers to maximize creaminess!
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Assemble in Advance: Consider preparing your lasagna a day prior. If you’re using a cold dish, extend your baking time by 10–15 minutes for optimal warming.
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Cooling Time Matters: Allow the lasagna to sit for 15 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps the layers set, making serving much easier and neater.
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Customize Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Substitute different cheeses or even try a vegetarian twist with roasted vegetables for a deliciously unique take.
How to Store and Freeze Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna
Fridge: Store your lasagna in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain its texture and flavor.
Freezer: This rich Maggiano’s lasagna freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw the lasagna overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 25–30 minutes or until heated through.
Make-Ahead: Assembling the lasagna ahead of time is a lifesaver! Just cover it tightly, refrigerate, and when you’re ready to bake, extend the cooking time by 10-15 minutes if starting from cold.
Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna Recipe FAQs
What type of Italian sausage should I use?
I recommend using mild Italian sausage for a classic flavor, but spicy sausage can add a nice kick if you prefer heat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken will work beautifully as substitutes.
How should I store leftover lasagna?
Once your lasagna has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best results, I highly recommend keeping it tightly sealed to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna?
Absolutely! Wrap your cooled lasagna tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my pasta sheets are sticking together?
To prevent your lasagna sheets from sticking, make sure to rinse them thoroughly under cold water after cooking. You can also lightly drizzle a bit of olive oil between the layers to keep them from clumping. If you ever need to use no-boil pasta sheets, those can save you a lot of trouble!
Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?
You bet! Substitute the meat with a combination of roasted vegetables, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative. For the cheese, use cashew cheese or a dairy-free ricotta for a delicious vegan version. Just be sure to season well!
Why do I need to let the lasagna cool before slicing?
Letting your lasagna cool for about 15 minutes after baking helps it set, which makes it much easier to slice and serve clean portions. If you skip this step, you might find your layers slipping apart!
Deliciously Rich Maggiano's Lasagna for Comfort Food Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced onion and minced garlic until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Italian sausage and ground beef, cooking until browned, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Add water, dried basil, Italian seasoning, fennel seed, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low heat for about 90 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped parsley, whole egg, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add lasagna pasta sheets and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a baking dish, spoon 1 cup of meat sauce to cover the bottom. Layer pasta sheets, ricotta mixture, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Repeat layers twice more.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes until top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to cool for 15 minutes before slicing into portions.
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