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Ham & Cheese Lasagna

Ham & Cheese Lasagna
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This Ham & Cheese Lasagna is a comforting and cheesy dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring layers of tender pasta, smoky ham, creamy ricotta, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, all brought together with savory marinara sauce and fresh herbs. Quick to prepare and bake in under an hour, it offers familiar, family-friendly flavors with a balanced texture and versatility for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Pasta & Sauce

  • Lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular, about 9-12 sheets)
  • Marinara sauce, approximately 2 cups

Meat & Cheese

  • Ham slices or diced ham, about 2 cups
  • Shredded cheese blend (mozzarella and cheddar), 3 cups total
  • Ricotta cheese, 1 ½ cups
  • Egg, 1 large

Herbs & Seasoning

  • Fresh basil or parsley, 2 tablespoons chopped
  • Salt, pinch
  • Black pepper, pinch

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients. If using regular lasagna noodles, boil according to package instructions until al dente, then drain thoroughly. Dice the ham into bite-sized pieces and shred the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses if not pre-shredded.
  2. Make the Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with one large egg, a pinch of salt and pepper, and the chopped fresh herbs (basil or parsley). Stir until smooth and well blended to create a creamy and flavorful base layer.
  3. Assemble the Layers: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Layer lasagna noodles over the sauce, then spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture, sprinkle diced ham, and top with shredded cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous topping of shredded cheese on the top layer.
  4. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.
  5. Let it Rest and Serve: After baking, allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the layers to set and makes slicing easier. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil before serving if desired.

Notes

  • Avoid soggy noodles by using no-boil noodles or ensuring boiled noodles are well drained.
  • Spread each layer evenly for consistent flavor and texture in every slice.
  • Allow the lasagna to rest after baking for neat slicing and firmer layers.
  • Mix different cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for depth of flavor and meltiness.
  • Use fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for brightness that dried herbs can’t match.

Nutrition

Keywords: Ham and Cheese Lasagna, Quick Lasagna, Family Dinner, Easy Lasagna, Comfort Food, Weeknight Meal

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/ham-cheese-lasagna/