Indulgent Holiday Christmas Lasagna: A Festive Family Favorite

Enjoy a comforting and versatile Holiday Christmas Lasagna that's a perfect centerpiece for festive gatherings.

Print Pin

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: Christmas, Comfort Food, Family, Festive, Holiday, Lasagna

Prep Time: 30

Cook Time: 1 30

Resting Time: 20

Total Time: 2 20

Servings: slices

Calories: 400kcal

1 lb Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey for leaner option or plant-based meat for vegetarian.
1 lb Italian Sausage Can use chicken sausage or vegetarian crumbles.
1 Onion Finely diced.
5-6 cloves Garlic Fresh minced is ideal.
1.5 cans Tomato Paste Canned tomato sauce may be used if necessary.
1 can Crushed Tomatoes
1 can Tomato Sauce
0.5 cup Red Wine Use beef or vegetable broth for alcohol-free option.
Italian Seasonings & Oregano Fresh herbs can enhance flavor.

1 container Ricotta Cheese Can substitute with pureed silken tofu or cashew cream.
0.5 cup Grated Romano or Parmesan Cheese Vegan alternatives available.
0.5 cup Mozzarella Cheese Optional for texture.

Cook Meat: In a large saucepan, cook ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned (about 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally.
Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to pan. Season with salt and pepper; sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Build Sauce: Stir in tomato paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
Simmer Sauce: Mix in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, red wine, Italian seasonings, oregano, fennel seeds, and parsley. Reduce heat and let simmer for 1 hour until thickened.
Prepare Cheese Mix: Combine ricotta, grated Romano/Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, egg, parsley, and salt in a bowl. Refrigerate until needed.
Par-Cook Noodles: Boil noodles in salted water for about 3 minutes until slightly softened. Drain and lay flat on parchment paper.
Assemble Lasagna: In a baking dish, layer meat sauce, 6 noodles, half of ricotta mixture, cheese sprinkle, and more sauce. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients and top with sauce and cheese.
Bake Covered: Cover with parchment paper and foil, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
Final Bake: Remove cover, add more mozzarella, and bake uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
Let Rest: Allow lasagna to rest for 20 minutes before slicing.

Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.