Hearty Baked Lasagna with Italian Sausage and Beef

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions, stirring the water to prevent sticking. Drain the noodles and set aside.

2. 2

   In a Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage, ground beef, and diced onion over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, breaking up the meat as it cooks, until no longer pink. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. 3

   Drain the meat mixture, then add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, sugar, 3 tablespoons parsley, basil, fennel, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. 4

   In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, ricotta cheese, remaining 1/4 cup parsley, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

5. 5

   Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spread 2 cups of the meat sauce in an ungreased 13x9-inch baking dish. Layer 3 noodles, one-third of the ricotta mixture, 1 cup mozzarella, and 2 tablespoons Parmesan over the sauce. Repeat the layers twice more, ending with the remaining meat sauce and cheeses.

6. 6

   Cover the dish and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the cover and bake for an additional 25 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted. Let stand for 15 minutes before serving.