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What Makes This Recipe Special?
Why choose between pizza and lasagna when you can have both in one delightful dish? Ultimate Pizza Lasagna combines the gooey cheese, hearty sauce, and savory toppings of pizza with the layered goodness of lasagna. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. With easy steps and versatile ingredients, you’ll find yourself making this over and over again.
Ingredients
For the Lasagna:
- Lasagna Noodles: 12 sheets, cooked according to package instructions (Learn more).
- Marinara Sauce: 3 cups, divided (Learn more).
- Ground Italian Sausage: 1 lb, cooked and crumbled
- Pepperoni Slices: 1 cup
- Mozzarella Cheese: 4 cups, shredded
- Ricotta Cheese: 2 cups
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated (Learn more).
- Egg: 1, beaten
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for added spice
Toppings:
- Bell Peppers: 1 cup, diced
- Black Olives: ½ cup, sliced
- Mushrooms: ½ cup, sliced
- Fresh Basil: For garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot: To cook the lasagna noodles.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: For layering and baking the lasagna.
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing the ricotta mixture and combining ingredients.
- Aluminum Foil: To cover the dish during the first part of baking.
- Spatula or Ladle: For spreading the sauce and layers evenly.
- Sharp Knife: To dice the vegetables and slice the finished lasagna.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
Assembly
- Layer the Lasagna: Spread ½ cup of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer lasagna noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, sausage, pepperoni, and marinara sauce. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mozzarella on top.
- Add Toppings: Scatter diced bell peppers, black olives, and mushrooms over the top layer of cheese.
Baking
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the lasagna to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Meat Options: Swap Italian sausage for ground beef, turkey, or a plant-based alternative.
- Sauce Substitute: Use Alfredo sauce for a creamier twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and load up on veggies like spinach, zucchini, or artichokes.
- Cheese Lovers: Add shredded provolone or cheddar for an extra cheesy experience.
- Kid-Friendly: Use mini pepperonis or customize the toppings to your kids’ preferences.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or microwave until warmed through.
Nutritional Information
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 slice (1/8) | 350 | 18g | 25g | 20g |
The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
FAQ for Pizza Lasagna
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free ones and double-check that all your sauces and toppings are gluten-free certified for a safe and tasty result.
Q: What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
A: If ricotta isn’t available, cottage cheese works wonderfully. Blend it until smooth for a texture that closely mimics ricotta in your lasagna layers.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the lasagna up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Q: How do I prevent the lasagna from being too watery?
A: Drain excess liquid from the ricotta mixture and cook the sauce down until thick. Using quality noodles also helps.
Q: What other toppings work well in this dish?
A: Try jalapeños for spice, pineapple for a sweet twist, or artichokes for a Mediterranean flair.
Enhancements
For dessert ideas to complement this meal, consider Irresistible Brownie Baked Oatmeal for a chocolatey indulgence or Homemade Crème Caramel Sugar-Free Flan for a lighter, refined finish.
Sweet and Healthy Enjoyment
And there you have it—delightful, customizable, and guilt-free Ultimate Pizza Lasagna! This recipe is the perfect way to bring a bit of nostalgia to your table while keeping things fun and exciting. Whether you’re preparing this for a special celebration, a cozy family evening, or just as a treat to brighten your day, Ultimate Pizza Lasagna is sure to bring smiles all around.
Now it’s your turn to whip up a batch of this flavorful dish! Get creative, experiment with flavors, and enjoy the process. For more exciting recipes, visit Fitorecipes.com. Happy cooking!
