Combining the best of two beloved dishes, this Pizza Lasagna Delight is a mouthwatering fusion of classic lasagna and all the flavors of a delicious pizza. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this hearty dish is sure to become a new favorite. With layers of tender lasagna noodles, savory meat, rich ricotta, and gooey cheese, every bite is a delightful experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. lasagna noodles
- 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, with additional for coating the noodles
- 1/2 large onion, chopped
- 8 oz. sliced white mushrooms
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 Tbsp. dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 (32-oz.) jar marinara
- Kosher salt
- 2 (15-oz.) containers whole-milk ricotta
- 2 large eggs
- 1 c. freshly grated Parmesan
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 c. sliced pepperoni
- 3 c. shredded mozzarella
- Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and lay them out flat on a lightly oiled baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Meat and Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms, cooking until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks
- Stir in the marinara sauce and season with kosher salt to taste. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes, then take it off the heat.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, grated Parmesan, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
- Add a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella.
- Add another layer of meat sauce and top with pepperoni slices.
- Repeat the layers, ending with a generous topping of shredded mozzarella and a few more pepperoni slices for garnish.
- Bake:
- Wrap the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy the delicious fusion of pizza and lasagna!
Conclusion
Pizza Lasagna Delight offers the best of both worlds, combining the rich, hearty layers of lasagna with the familiar and beloved flavors of pizza. This dish is perfect for those who love both classic Italian comfort foods and are looking for a fun, tasty twist. Gather your loved ones and enjoy this delightful, comforting meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.