If you're craving a dish that embodies the essence of Italian comfort food, look no further than Shirley Lasagna al Pesto! This delightful twist on the classic lasagna is not only easy to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. With layers of creamy ricotta, aromatic pesto, and gooey mozzarella, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Dive into this mouthwatering recipe and discover how to create a lasagna that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Carefully add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended and smooth.
- Begin layering the lasagna. Start with a thin layer of pesto sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles to cover the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping if necessary.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
- Drizzle half of the pesto sauce over the ricotta layer.
- Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese over the pesto.
- Repeat the layering process: noodles, remaining ricotta, remaining pesto, and remaining mozzarella.
- Add a final layer of noodles on top. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the entire surface.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn't touch the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes cutting easier.
- Slice into 8 portions and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves or additional pesto.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the ricotta mixture and pesto sauce a day in advance. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and make assembly quicker.
- Al Dente Noodles: Ensure your lasagna noodles are cooked al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. This helps prevent a mushy texture.
- Layering Technique: For even distribution of flavors, make sure to spread the pesto and ricotta mixtures evenly in each layer. Don’t rush this step; it makes a big difference!
- Resting Time: Letting the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes after baking is crucial. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Garnish for Presentation: For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing your lasagna with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of extra pesto before serving. It adds color and enhances the flavor!
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix and match your cheeses! Adding a blend of provolone or fontina can introduce additional flavors that complement the pesto beautifully.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your lasagna with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 289kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
