Tomato Lasagna is a dish that makes your taste buds dance and your heart sing. Picture layers of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and bubbling cheese, all harmonizing together in a culinary symphony. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame, promising an unforgettable feast. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.
Every time I make Tomato Lasagna, I am transported back to family gatherings filled with laughter and love. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, this dish never fails to impress and satiate. For more inspiration, check out this more dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Tomato Lasagna is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The combination of flavors is simply divine, creating a comforting experience with every bite
- Its vibrant colors are sure to brighten up any table setting
- Whether served as a main course or at potlucks, it’s always a crowd-pleaser
I vividly remember the first time I made this lasagna; my friends devoured it faster than I could serve it.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Lasagna Noodles: Use no-boil noodles for convenience, as they save time and ensure you never have to deal with cooking pasta.
Fresh Tomatoes: Look for ripe tomatoes for the best flavor; they should be firm yet slightly yielding when pressed.
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; you can also mix in an egg for added richness.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is ideal for melting; don’t skimp on this cheesy goodness!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth; sprinkle generously between layers for that extra kick.
Fresh Basil: Use aromatic basil leaves; they bring freshness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will elevate the sauce’s flavor; crush them right before use for maximum potency.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil; it adds richness to the sauce and helps sauté veggies.
Sugar: A pinch of sugar balances out the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Adjust according to taste; they’re essential for bringing out all the flavors in your dish!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Tomato Lasagna
Prepare the Sauce: Start by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned—about 1 minute—then toss in diced fresh tomatoes.
Add Seasoning: Stir in salt, pepper, and sugar into your simmering tomato mixture. Let it bubble away for about 15 minutes until thickened nicely while filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
Create Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with an egg (if using), salt, and freshly chopped basil. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy—this will provide layer upon layer of cheesy goodness!
Layer It Up: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Layer noodles followed by half of the ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and then more sauce. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
Bake to Perfection: Cover your lasagna with foil (to prevent burning) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil during the last 15 minutes so that the top gets golden brown and bubbly—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Enjoying Tomato Lasagna means indulging in comfort food at its finest! Each bite bursts with flavor as layers meld together beautifully—a true masterpiece worthy of any occasion!
You Must Know
- Tomato lasagna is a delightful dish that balances acidity and creaminess, making every bite a flavorful experience
- With layers of melted cheese and rich tomato sauce, the aroma will fill your kitchen, enticing everyone to the dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your sauce while you boil the noodles. Layer everything in a baking dish, then pop it into the oven for perfect bubbling results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also switch up the cheeses based on your personal preference for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To prevent soggy lasagna, always drain excess moisture from your tomatoes before layering
- Opt for no-boil noodles to save time; they absorb moisture beautifully
- For maximum flavor, let your lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing
There was this one time I made tomato lasagna for a family gathering, and my cousin devoured half of it! The compliments just kept pouring in; it felt like winning a culinary Oscar.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tomatoes for tomato lasagna?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes enhance flavor but require more cooking time to break down.
What type of cheese works best?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan create a creamy and delicious combination in tomato lasagna.
Can I freeze tomato lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw overnight and bake as usual when ready!
Tomato Lasagna
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Tomato Lasagna is a delightful blend of layers featuring tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With its enticing aroma and vibrant colors, Tomato Lasagna promises to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 9 no-boil lasagna noodles
- 4 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the sauce: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add diced tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- 2. Create the cheese mixture: In a bowl, mix ricotta with half of the chopped basil and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- 3. Layer the lasagna: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and more sauce; repeat until all ingredients are used.
- 4. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For extra nutrition, consider adding spinach or mushrooms between layers. Let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
