Pizza Lasagna: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Pizza Lasagna
Are you ready to dive into a dish that combines two of the most beloved foods on the planet? Pizza lasagna is the ultimate comfort food that brings together all the gooey goodness of lasagna with the zesty flavors of pizza. This hearty recipe is perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or anytime you crave something deliciously cheesy and satisfying.
A Personal Story Behind My Pizza Lasagna Journey
Growing up, my family had a tradition of making lasagna every Sunday. It was a time for us to gather, share stories, and enjoy good food together. One day, I decided to add a twist to our classic recipe by combining it with pizza ingredients that my kids loved. The result? A delightful pizza lasagna that became an instant hit! Now, it’s a staple in our home, and I’m excited to share this easy recipe with you.
What Makes This Pizza Lasagna Recipe Special?
This pizza lasagna recipe stands out because it combines the layers of traditional lasagna with the bold flavors of pizza. The addition of pepperoni and Italian sausage brings a savory richness, while the blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses creates a creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Plus, it’s customizable! You can easily adjust the toppings or make it vegetarian, ensuring everyone at your table will love it.
The Full Pizza Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 1 cup pepperoni, sliced
- 3 cups tomato sauce
- 16 ounces ricotta cheese
- 16 ounces mozzarella, sliced
- 1 lb Italian sausage, cooked
- 3/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tomato Sauce:
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes, canned
- 1/2 cup onions, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 tsp red crushed pepper, optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, cook and drain the Italian sausage. Place it in a bowl and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, bring 6 cups of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles for about 7 minutes until they are al dente. Remove from water, cut them to size if needed, and set aside. (Tip: Be sure not to overcook the noodles; they will continue to cook in the oven!)
- Prepare the tomato sauce by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and optional red crushed pepper until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes and remaining sauce ingredients. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. (Tip: This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully!)
- In a 9x13x3-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of the prepared tomato sauce on the bottom. Layer with lasagna noodles, followed by ricotta, mozzarella, cooked sausage, pepperoni, and a sprinkle of parmesan. Repeat the layering process, finishing with mozzarella, more pepperoni, parmesan, and a dash of Italian seasoning on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Once done, let it cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into sections and serving. Enjoy your delicious pizza lasagna! (Tip: Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal!)
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Pizza Lasagna
This pizza lasagna is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some serving suggestions. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad. For a fun twist, try adding your favorite pizza toppings, such as bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms, between the layers. If you want to keep it vegetarian, simply omit the Italian sausage and double the mozzarella for an extra cheesy experience!
Frequently Asked Questions About Pizza Lasagna
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
Can I freeze pizza lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just wrap it tightly in foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta on hand, you can use cottage cheese or a blend of cream cheese and sour cream for a similar creamy texture.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, omit the Italian sausage and double the amount of mozzarella for a cheesy alternative.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 480
- Servings: 8
Pizza Lasagna
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles cooked al dente
- 1 cup pepperoni, sliced
- 3 cups tomato sauce
- 16 ounces ricotta cheese
- 16 ounces mozzarella, sliced
- 1 lb Italian sausage, cooked
- 3.75 cups parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, cook and drain the Italian sausage. Place it in a bowl and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, bring 6 cups of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles for about 7 minutes until they are al dente. Remove from water, cut them to size if needed, and set aside.
- Prepare the tomato sauce by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and optional red crushed pepper until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes and remaining sauce ingredients. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- In a 9x13x3-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of the prepared tomato sauce on the bottom. Layer with lasagna noodles, followed by ricotta, mozzarella, cooked sausage, pepperoni, and a sprinkle of parmesan. Repeat the layering process, finishing with mozzarella, more pepperoni, parmesan, and a dash of Italian seasoning on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Once done, let it cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into sections and serving.