Irresistible Classic Lasagna with a Twist of Truffle Oil

Experience the Comfort of Classic Lasagna

There’s something truly special about a homemade lasagna that warms the heart and delights the taste buds. This timeless dish brings together layers of flavor and texture, combining rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and bubbling mozzarella. But what sets this classic lasagna apart is a luxurious twist—truffle oil. This simple addition elevates the dish, adding a depth of flavor that transforms a traditional recipe into a gourmet experience. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this lasagna is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Not only is this classic lasagna a feast for the eyes, but it also ticks all the boxes for a perfect meal:

Rich Flavor: The combination of marinara sauce and truffle oil creates a symphony of taste that is both comforting and gourmet.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
Feeds a Crowd: Lasagna is a great dish for serving a larger group, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Leftover Perfection: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
Customizable: You can easily modify ingredients to suit dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Marinara Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Mixture

15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 egg
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembling the Lasagna

12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons truffle oil
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Marinara Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Mix the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Cook the Noodles: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel.
Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place 3 cooked noodles over the sauce. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by 1 cup of marinara sauce and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with noodles topped with marinara sauce and the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Drizzle with Truffle Oil: Before baking, drizzle the top layer of cheese with truffle oil for that gourmet touch.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve: Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This classic lasagna pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:

Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread for dipping into the rich marinara sauce.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the cheesy layers perfectly.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal.

Tips for Success

To ensure your lasagna turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook them just until al dente, as they will continue to cook while baking.
Let It Rest: Allow the lasagna to rest after baking. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, to the layers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This classic lasagna recipe is a wonderful way to create a memorable meal that will have your guests raving. With its layers of flavor and the luxurious touch of truffle oil, it’s more than just a dinner—it’s a culinary experience. So gather your loved ones, serve a generous slice, and enjoy the smiles that this dish will bring. Don’t forget to capture your lasagna moments and share them with friends! Happy cooking!