Hearty Three-Meat Lasagna with a Flavorful Tomato Sauce

Lasagna is a timeless comfort food, beloved for its layers of pasta, cheese, and rich meat sauce. This recipe takes traditional lasagna up a notch by incorporating three types of meat and a trio of cheeses, creating a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a meal for your family, this lasagna promises to be a crowd-pleaser with its savory and satisfying layers.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef chuck
• 1 lb breakfast sausage
• 1 lb sliced pepperoni
• 1 16-ounce can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
• 1 12-ounce can tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups water
• 1 1-lb box lasagna noodles
• 1 1-lb tub ricotta cheese, divided
• 1 1-lb bag shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Preparation:

1. Make the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large, deep-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef and sausage together, breaking them apart with a spoon until fully cooked. Add the sliced pepperoni, diced fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, pepper, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, chopped onion, and water to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the tomatoes to break down, creating a robust and flavorful sauce.
2. Prepare the Noodles: While the sauce simmers, cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. Layer the Lasagna: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top. Spread a portion of the ricotta cheese over the noodles, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.
4. Bake and Serve: Bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a golden-brown edge. Let the lasagna cool for 15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.

Bonus Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some additional dried oregano or fresh basil on top of the lasagna before baking. This simple addition can elevate the dish with a fresh herbal note.

Conclusion: This three-meat lasagna is a decadent twist on a classic favorite, combining savory beef, sausage, and pepperoni with a rich tomato sauce and a medley of cheeses. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for feeding a crowd or for enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. Serve it alongside a crisp salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete and hearty meal. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends, and relish the delicious layers of flavor in every bite!