If you love the taste of Olive Garden’s famous lasagna, you’re in for a treat. This blog post will guide you through creating a mouthwatering Olive Garden Lasagna Classico right in your own kitchen.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate the rich layers, savory meat sauce, and delicious cheeses that make Olive Garden’s lasagna a fan favorite.
The secret lies in using a mix of fresh ingredients like Italian sausage, ground beef, and a blend of herbs to craft a sauce that’s full of flavor.
As you layer this with tender noodles and four types of cheese, you’ll get that classic taste you know and love.
Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this lasagna recipe is sure to impress.
Making this at home not only allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish anytime, but it’s also a chance to customize it to your liking. Feel free to adjust the spices or cheese blend according to your preference.
Dive into this recipe, and savor the experience of bringing a piece of Olive Garden into your kitchen.
What Makes This Olive Garden Lasagna Recipe Special?
The Olive Garden Lasagna Classico is cherished for its layers of flavors. This isn’t just any lasagna; it combines a rich, hearty meat sauce with tender pasta and a blend of cheeses, bringing comfort to every bite.
Key Ingredients:
- Meat Sauce: A mix of ground beef and Italian sausage gives the sauce a savory boost.
- Cheese Layer: Mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan create a creamy, gooey texture.
- Pasta: Perfectly cooked lasagna noodles hold everything together.
The meat sauce is cooked to perfection with a combination of beef and sausage. It delivers a perfect balance of flavors, seasoned with oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
The cheese blend is where this recipe shines. Ricotta provides creaminess, while mozzarella adds that stretchy, melty goodness. Finally, Parmesan offers a bold, nutty flavor.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Comfort Food: Every layer is a comforting hug on a plate.
- Recreate at Home: Even though it’s a restaurant favorite, you can easily make this dish at home.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, tempting everyone to ask for seconds.
Making this copycat recipe at home re-creates the feeling of dining at Olive Garden. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the Lasagna Classico experience without leaving your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need For Olive Garden Lasagna Recipe
For a delicious homemade Olive Garden Lasagna, you’ll need a variety of ingredients. Here’s a list to guide your preparation:
Meat Sauce:
- Ground Beef: 12 ounces
- Italian Sausage: 8 ounces
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Garlic Cloves: 2, minced
- Crushed Tomatoes: Two 28-ounce cans
- Tomato Sauce: Optional for extra flavor
- Tomato Paste: Optional for thickness
- Dried Oregano: 1/4 teaspoon
- Dried Basil: 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
Cheese Filling:
- Ricotta Cheese: 16 ounces
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup or more for richness
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups
- Egg: 1, beaten
- Romano Cheese: Optional for added flavor
Lasagna Layers:
- Lasagna Noodles: 12, cooked and ready to use
Seasonings:
- Oregano: Additional as needed
- Basil: Fresh if possible for extra aroma
These ingredients work together to create a rich, hearty lasagna that’s perfect for any family gathering.
Remember to taste and adjust seasonings as you cook for the perfect balance. Enjoy crafting your lasagna masterpiece!
Step-By-Step Guide To Making Olive Garden Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients:
- ½ lb ground beef
- ½ lb Italian sausage, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz red onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes (2 cans)
- 1½ tsp dried oregano, divided
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 16 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg, beaten
- 12 lasagna noodles
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft. - Create the Sauce:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for about 20 minutes to let the flavors blend. - Cook the Noodles:
Boil the lasagna noodles until they are al dente. Drain and set aside. - Make the Cheese Filling:
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, one beaten egg, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, and the remaining oregano. Stir until well combined. - Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce. Add a layer of noodles, followed by the cheese filling. Continue layering until you finish with noodles and sauce. - Add the Final Touches:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top. - Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for 15 more minutes until the top is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips For The Perfect Olive Garden Lasagna Recipe
Creating the perfect Olive Garden Lasagna at home is easier than you think! Here are some tips to make it just right.
Cheese Choices
Use a combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This mix gives each layer a rich and creamy texture. Make sure to use fresh, high-quality cheese for the best flavor. Shred your own cheese to ensure it melts beautifully.
Sauce Secrets
Create a meat sauce that’s savory and full of flavor. Using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage adds a nice depth. Cook slowly, letting the flavors develop.
For a cream sauce twist, consider adding a thin layer of béchamel. It adds a smooth texture and complements the tomato sauce well.
Perfect Pasta
Cook lasagna noodles al dente. They’ll continue to cook in the oven, so slightly firm noodles prevent a mushy texture. Arrange them evenly to make sure the layers hold together.
Herb Enhancements
Fresh parsley can add a burst of color and hint of freshness. Sprinkle some over the top before baking or as a garnish after it comes out of the oven. Try adding dried oregano and basil for a more traditional flavor.
Assembly Tips
Layer with care. Start with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the pan. Alternate between noodles, cheese, and sauces. Ending with a cheese layer will give you a golden brown top that’s irresistible.
Enjoy your masterpiece hot, with family gathered around the table. Making it yourself means you can enjoy this Italian classic anytime.
How To Customize Olive Garden Lasagna Recipe For Different Diets
To customize your Olive Garden Lasagna for a vegetarian diet, simply skip the meat. Replace ground beef and sausage with vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. This makes it hearty and delicious.
If you’re going for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free lasagna noodles. These are widely available in grocery stores. Make sure to check all sauces for any hidden gluten.
For a dairy-free version, swap out the cheeses with plant-based alternatives. Almond or cashew-based cheeses work well and still provide that creamy texture.
To lower the fat content, consider choosing lean meat like turkey instead of beef and sausage. Alternatively, double up on veggies to make it even healthier.
If you’re watching your calorie intake, opt for whole-grain noodles and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also use a low-fat ricotta cheese.
For those following a keto diet, you can replace the noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant. This helps reduce carbs while keeping the layers intact.
Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to enhance flavor. Basil and oregano are great choices. These small changes can make a big difference in fitting the lasagna into your diet plan.
Olive Garden Lasagna Recipe Storage And Meal Prep Tips
Meal Prep:
Start by assembling the entire lasagna. You can do this up to two days in advance. Keep it in the refrigerator, tightly covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This allows flavors to deepen, so when you bake it, the taste is even better.
Freezing:
If you want to prepare it earlier, freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual.
Leftovers:
Store any leftover baked lasagna in the refrigerator. Place it in an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until hot.
Portion Control:
Consider cutting the lasagna into single-serving sizes before storing. This makes it easy to grab a quick meal during a busy week. Each piece can be individually wrapped or separated with parchment paper before freezing.
Nutritional Information Considerations:
Lasagna is a hearty dish, often rich in calories and protein due to the meat, cheese, and pasta. Be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your intake. A balance of salad or light sides can complement this meal.
Pairing Ideas For Olive Garden Lasagna Recipe
Lasagna pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks that enhance its rich flavors. A simple Caesar salad is a perfect choice. The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing balance the warmth and heaviness of the lasagna.
Garlic bread is another classic option. Its crunchy texture goes well with the soft layers of noodles and cheese. Plus, it’s great for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.
When it comes to beverages, a red wine like Chianti or a Cabernet Sauvignon complements the tomato and meat flavors in the lasagna beautifully. A fruity wine can enhance the meal without overpowering it.
For a non-alcoholic option, consider a refreshing sparkling water with a splash of lemon or lime. It cleanses your palate between bites, highlighting the lasagna’s rich flavors.
Desserts like tiramisu or a light lemon sorbet can round out your meal, adding a sweet finish without being overly heavy.
