Lasagna holds a cherished place in Italian-American cuisine, embodying the warmth and richness of classic comfort food. Maggiano’s Little Italy, a renowned chain inspired by Italian-American family gatherings, has become known for its hearty, flavorful dishes, and their lasagna is no exception. Established in 1991, Maggiano’s restaurants quickly grew popular for serving large portions meant to be shared, echoing the convivial spirit of Italian dining. Today, Maggiano’s has set itself apart by offering indulgent, familiar recipes with a touch of Italian authenticity that feels both home-cooked and elevated.
Lasagna, a layered pasta dish with roots in Italian cuisine, is a versatile and beloved meal that balances rich tomato sauces, savory meats, creamy cheeses, and tender pasta. Maggiano’s lasagna is particularly satisfying because it combines a hearty meat sauce with a smooth cheese filling, creating an irresistible, deeply layered experience. Known for its depth of flavor, Maggiano’s style of lasagna is as comforting as it is decadent, making it a popular dish for gatherings and special meals.
What Makes Maggiano’s Lasagna Unique
Maggiano’s lasagna stands out from traditional recipes due to its generous use of both ground beef and Italian sausage, which together create a rich and savory meat sauce. This combination adds layers of flavor and heartiness not often found in standard lasagna recipes, which might use only ground beef. Seasoned with fennel, basil, and Italian spices, the sauce offers a taste profile that’s both bold and comforting.
Another unique aspect of Maggiano’s lasagna is its cheese blend. In addition to creamy ricotta, it uses both mozzarella for melt-in-your-mouth texture and Parmesan for a hint of sharpness. The layering technique Maggiano’s employs ensures that each bite is balanced, with the perfect mix of noodles, sauce, and cheese, creating a textural experience that’s deliciously rich. These layers of flavors and textures, combined with Maggiano’s dedication to quality ingredients, make their lasagna a truly memorable dish that can easily be recreated at home.
Ingredients Breakdown and Preparation
Overview of Essential Ingredients
Creating a Maggiano’s-style lasagna at home begins with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure robust flavor and ideal texture in each layer. The essential ingredients for lasagna include meat, tomatoes, cheese, pasta, and a range of aromatic herbs and spices. Fresh herbs and spices enhance the lasagna’s Italian essence, with basil, garlic, and fennel providing the authentic Italian-American flavor that defines Maggiano’s dishes.
Some ingredients stand out for their role in creating this unique recipe. Fennel seeds, for example, are not typical in all lasagna recipes but are crucial in Italian sausage and add a slightly sweet, licorice-like undertone that pairs beautifully with tomato and cheese. Italian sausage itself, with its seasoning and depth, combined with ground beef, provides a balanced, hearty base for the meat sauce. This mix of meats and herbs makes Maggiano’s lasagna richer and more flavorful than traditional beef-only lasagna recipes.
Meat Sauce Ingredients and Tips
The meat sauce in Maggiano’s lasagna is central to its appeal. Combining ground beef with Italian sausage creates a robust, savory profile with a variety of textures and flavors. For best results, the meat should be browned thoroughly before adding the other ingredients, allowing caramelized flavors to develop. The sauce then simmers with a blend of tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce for rich depth.
Herbs and spices are the final essential touch. Fresh or dried basil, a sprinkle of fennel seeds, and Italian seasoning bring out the quintessential Italian flavors. Sugar is added to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing the sauce’s natural sweetness and allowing the spices to shine through.
Cheese Filling Ingredients and Tips
A hallmark of Maggiano’s lasagna is its blend of cheeses, which includes ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Ricotta cheese is smooth and creamy, forming the base of the cheese filling, which is combined with egg to help bind the layers. Mozzarella offers a stretchy, gooey texture, while Parmesan adds a subtle sharpness that elevates the flavor profile.
For those with dietary needs, substitutions can easily be made. Low-fat ricotta or dairy-free options provide lighter alternatives, while vegan Parmesan and mozzarella work well for a dairy-free version. This thoughtful blend of cheeses is key to the rich, layered texture that makes Maggiano’s lasagna so satisfying.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Meat Sauce
To start the meat sauce, heat a large pot over medium heat, adding a bit of oil if necessary to prevent sticking. Begin by browning 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of Italian sausage, crumbling the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning and a smooth texture. The meat should be cooked until it’s no longer pink and has developed a slight caramelization, which enhances the sauce’s flavor. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pot to avoid a greasy sauce.
Next, add a finely chopped large onion and three minced garlic cloves to the pot. Sauté these with the meat until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, around 2–3 minutes. This step builds a robust foundation for the sauce. Stir in two 28-ounce cans of crushed tomatoes, one 6-ounce can of tomato paste, one 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, and ½ cup of water. Mix well to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
Season the sauce with 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of dried basil, ½ teaspoon of fennel seeds, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 tablespoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 1½ hours, stirring occasionally. This slow simmering allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a deeply rich and flavorful meat sauce.
Creating the Cheese Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, prepare the cheese filling by combining 16 ounces of ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy, making sure the egg is fully incorporated to bind the ingredients. This filling is essential for creating the creamy layers that are a hallmark of a good lasagna. For the best texture, aim for an evenly mixed filling, which will spread smoothly across each noodle layer, adding a velvety consistency to every bite.
Cooking the Lasagna Noodles
To cook the lasagna noodles, fill a large pot with water, adding a generous pinch of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Bring the water to a rolling boil and add 12 lasagna noodles. Stir the noodles gently at first to prevent them from sticking to each other or to the pot. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes, until they are al dente — tender but still slightly firm, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
Once the noodles are cooked, drain them immediately and rinse with cold water. This step halts the cooking process and prevents them from becoming overly soft. To keep the noodles from sticking together as you prepare to assemble the lasagna, lay them flat on a baking sheet or lightly drizzle them with olive oil. This ensures each noodle layer will be easy to handle and arrange.
Assembling the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s fully heated when you’re ready to bake. Begin assembling the lasagna by spreading 1 cup of the prepared meat sauce evenly over the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This base layer of sauce prevents the noodles from sticking to the pan and adds flavor to the bottom of the dish.
Place three lasagna noodles lengthwise over the sauce, allowing a bit of overlap. Spread one-third of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, smoothing it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese (about 5–6 ounces) over the ricotta, followed by ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Repeat these layers two more times, starting with the meat sauce, then noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan. For the top layer, finish with a generous amount of meat sauce, ensuring all noodles are fully covered to prevent them from drying out. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan, creating a cheese layer that will melt and brown beautifully in the oven.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, lightly spraying the underside with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This foil covering helps keep the moisture in, preventing the top from browning too quickly. Bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling. Allow the lasagna to rest for about 15 minutes before slicing, giving the layers time to set for easy serving.
Baking and Serving Tips
Baking Instructions
To bake the lasagna to perfection, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before assembling the dish. Once the lasagna is fully layered in a 9×13-inch baking dish, cover it with aluminum foil to retain moisture and prevent the cheese from browning too quickly. For best results, lightly spray the underside of the foil with cooking spray to keep it from sticking to the cheese as it melts. Bake the covered lasagna for 25 minutes, allowing the heat to circulate evenly.
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and return the lasagna to the oven for an additional 25 minutes. This step lets the top layer of cheese brown to a beautiful golden hue and allows the sauce to bubble around the edges, indicating it’s fully cooked. If you have a convection oven, you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly, as these ovens cook faster and distribute heat more evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Once the lasagna is baked, let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This cooling period allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut clean portions that hold their shape. Serving lasagna fresh from the oven may lead to a soupy texture, as the cheese and sauce need time to settle.
For a classic Italian presentation, garnish each slice with freshly chopped parsley or basil, which adds a burst of color and freshness. This hearty dish pairs well with light, fresh sides like a simple mixed green salad or garlic bread to complement the richness of the lasagna. For wine lovers, a robust red wine such as Chianti or a full-bodied Sangiovese enhances the flavors of the Italian sausage and tomato sauce, creating a perfect balance for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Substitute the Meat with Other Proteins?
Yes, you can easily substitute the meat in this lasagna recipe with other proteins to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives to ground beef and Italian sausage; both offer a lighter flavor and slightly leaner texture. For best results, season turkey or chicken with additional Italian herbs (such as oregano or thyme) to enhance their flavor profile. If you prefer a plant-based option, try using plant-based ground “meat” or lentils, which provide a similar texture and absorb flavors from the sauce well. Adding mushrooms also gives a savory depth that works wonderfully in vegetarian lasagna.
How Can I Make this Lasagna Ahead of Time?
To make this lasagna ahead, assemble it fully in a 9×13-inch baking dish but hold off on baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow the lasagna to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes if needed. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, cover it with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 60–70 minutes, then uncover and bake until bubbly and golden.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Lasagna?
For storing leftovers, refrigerate the lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For longer storage, freeze individual portions or the entire dish. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. To reheat frozen lasagna, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot, around 20–25 minutes.
How Can I Modify this Recipe for Dietary Needs?
This recipe can be adapted for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free lasagna noodles and verify that other ingredients, like tomato sauce, are gluten-free. To make it dairy-free, substitute ricotta with dairy-free alternatives, use plant-based mozzarella and Parmesan, and ensure all cheeses are melted fully. For a lower-calorie option, reduce the cheese amounts or use low-fat ricotta and mozzarella for a lighter lasagna that still delivers great flavor.
Conclusion and Final Tips
Summary of Key Points
Maggiano’s-style lasagna is a wonderfully hearty and flavorful dish that brings the rich tastes of Italian-American cuisine right to your home kitchen. With its robust meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and perfectly layered noodles, this lasagna offers a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage, paired with fresh herbs and a blend of cheeses, creates an unforgettable flavor that’s well worth the effort.
Encouragement to Experiment
While this recipe captures the essence of Maggiano’s lasagna, it’s also a versatile base for customization. Feel free to make it your own by experimenting with different seasonings, cheese blends, or noodle types. Try adding a touch of crushed red pepper for spice, or swap in whole wheat or gluten-free noodles to suit your preferences. With a little creativity, you can adapt this recipe to match your tastes and dietary needs, creating a delicious lasagna tailored just for you.
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Maggiano’s Style Lasagna
- Total Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Description
This classic lasagna brings rich, meaty flavors with layers of creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella. Inspired by Maggiano’s, it’s a hearty and comforting Italian dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in!
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Cheese Filling
- 16 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lasagna Assembly
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 16 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic until well browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water.
Add sugar, basil, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and parsley.
Cover and let simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally to develop the flavors.
2️⃣ Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well and set aside.
3️⃣ Cook the Lasagna Noodles: In a large pot, cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
4️⃣ Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread 1 cup of meat sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Place 3 lasagna noodles lengthwise over the sauce.
Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then top with one-third of the mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
Repeat layers two more times, starting with meat sauce and ending with mozzarella and Parmesan on the top layer.
5️⃣ Bake the Lasagna: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, lightly spray the underside with cooking spray).
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
6️⃣ Serve: Let the lasagna cool for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows it to set and makes it easier to serve.
Notes
- Fennel Seeds: These add a subtle flavor reminiscent of Italian sausage, so don’t skip them if possible.
- Mozzarella: For extra creaminess, use a mix of shredded mozzarella and freshly sliced mozzarella on top.
- Storage: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
