Lasagna AE

### Instructions: How to Make Lasagna AE

1. **Prepare the Meat Sauce**:
– In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
– Add the ground beef (or beef and pork mixture) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
– Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, red wine (if using), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
– Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let the sauce cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and become flavorful as the flavors meld together.

2. **Prepare the Cheese Mixture**:
– In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic powder, and salt.
– Mix everything together until smooth and well-combined. This will form the creamy, cheesy layer that adds richness to the lasagna.

3. **Cook the Noodles**:
– If you’re using traditional lasagna noodles, cook them in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and lay the noodles flat on a sheet of parchment paper or a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from sticking together.
– If using no-boil noodles, skip this step.

4. **Assemble the Lasagna**:
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
– Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
– Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly if necessary.
– Spread a generous portion of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by another layer of meat sauce.
– Repeat these layers (noodles, cheese mixture, meat sauce) until you have used all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.

5. **Bake the Lasagna**:
– Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. This helps to keep the lasagna moist and allows the flavors to meld together.
– After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
– If you like a slightly crispier top, you can broil it for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time, but watch carefully to avoid burning.

6. **Let It Rest**:
– Once the lasagna is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the lasagna set, making it easier to serve.

7. **Garnish and Serve**:
– Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil and a little extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
– Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

### Why Lasagna AE is a Game-Changer

What sets Lasagna AE apart from your typical lasagna recipe is the **balance of flavors**. The rich, savory meat sauce perfectly complements the creamy, cheesy filling, creating a lasagna that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. The addition of red wine and fresh herbs gives the sauce a complexity that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary. The careful layering ensures that each slice holds together beautifully, with just the right amount of sauce, cheese, and pasta in every bite.

The use of high-quality ingredients and homemade sauce brings the comfort food classic to a new level of deliciousness. It’s a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you want to treat yourself to a comforting, satisfying meal.

### Conclusion: Lasagna AE, A Dish to Remember

Lasagna AE is the perfect twist on a beloved classic. With its layered flavors, rich cheese filling, and savory meat sauce, it’s a dish that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Whether you’re making it for a special celebration or just because you want to enjoy a cozy night in, Lasagna AE is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the comforting, satisfying taste of Lasagna AE—your taste buds will thank you!