Southern Lasagna

This Southern Lasagna combines the comforting layers of traditional Italian lasagna with bold Southern flavors. Featuring rich and creamy cheese, spicy sausage, and a hint of smoky barbecue sauce, this dish offers a delightful twist on a classic. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, it’s both satisfying and unique without straying from traditional culinary principles.

Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, barbecue sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the cheddar cheese, and the grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and then a layer of the meat sauce.
7. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce and the rest of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.