A Festive Christmas Night Lasagna

There’s something magical about the combination of Christmas warmth, family, and a hearty, flavorful meal. The Christmas Night Lasagna brings these elements together in perfect harmony. Imagine the savory scent of meaty marinara, fresh mushrooms, and melted cheese filling the air as loved ones gather around the table. This lasagna isn’t just another recipe—it’s a Christmas tradition that brings a rich Italian-American touch to your holiday celebrations.

Why This Lasagna Will Win Your Heart

This lasagna is everything you crave in a hearty, comforting meal. It boasts a thick, rich, and meaty sauce made with both Italian sausage and lean ground beef, complemented by a luxurious cheese filling of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The combination of flavorful meat sauce and gooey cheese will make it an instant family favorite. With double the meat and cheese, this lasagna embraces indulgence, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Large saucepan
Large pot
10×15-inch baking pan
Aluminum foil
Baking sheet

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb Italian sausage
1 1/2 lb lean ground beef
8 oz mushrooms, chopped
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
6 cups marinara sauce
1/2 cup water
Optional: 1/2 tsp Italian herb blend

For the Cheese Filling:

2 eggs, beaten
2 lbs ricotta cheese
8 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed
2/3 cup freshly grated Reggiano-Parmesan
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Pinch of cayenne

For the Rest:

1 lb lasagna noodles
8 oz mozzarella cheese, torn into small pieces
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Meat Sauce:
In a large saucepan, brown the sausage and ground beef over medium heat. Once browned, add chopped mushrooms, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the mushrooms release their juices. Stir in marinara sauce, rinse the jar with water, and simmer for 2 hours until the sauce is tender and thick. Adjust seasoning if necessary and turn off the heat.
Prepare the Cheese Filling:
In a large bowl, combine eggs, ricotta, cubed mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Add parsley, salt, pepper, and cayenne, then stir until well mixed.
Cook the Noodles:
Boil salted water and cook lasagna noodles until firm to the bite (about 8 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1/4 of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 10×15-inch pan. Layer 1/3 of the noodles, followed by 1/2 of the ricotta mixture. Add 1/4 of the meat sauce, then repeat with another 1/3 of the noodles and the rest of the ricotta. Finish with the final 1/3 of noodles and the remaining meat sauce. Top with torn mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
Bake and Finish:
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. Let the lasagna rest for 20 minutes before slicing into squares.

Tips for Success

Season Well: Ensure your meat sauce is well-seasoned; adjust if needed.
Use High-Quality Cheese: The cheese is a key component, so choose the best quality for an outstanding flavor.
Rest the Lasagna: Let it set before serving to ensure it slices neatly.

Variations & Additions

Add Greens: Spinach or kale can be mixed into the cheese filling for extra nutrients.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap out regular noodles for gluten-free versions.
Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicier lasagna.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This hearty dish is packed with protein, calcium, and rich flavors—a perfect indulgence for the holiday season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the lasagna a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake when you’re ready to serve. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if chilled.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

What should I serve with lasagna?
Pair it with a fresh side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Christmas Night Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, filled with layers of rich meat sauce, cheesy goodness, and plenty of love. It’s sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering, creating lasting memories around the dinner table. Try it for your next Christmas celebration, and feel free to share your own variations or experiences in the comments. Happy cooking and happy holidays!