Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens) has been a beloved comfort food for decades, and the Better Homes and Gardens Lasagna Recipe from 1953 remains one of the most classic versions. This authentic, time-tested recipe combines rich, meaty tomato sauce, layers of perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy cheese blend, making it a favorite among home cooks.

If you’re looking for the best homemade lasagna recipe with a touch of nostalgia, this is it! Below, you’ll find the original 1953 Better Homes and Gardens lasagna recipe with detailed ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make it perfectly flavorful every time.

Ingredients (Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens))

A great lasagna starts with high-quality ingredients. This recipe follows the classic 1953 version, focusing on rich, hearty flavors.

For the Meat Sauce (Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens))

A flavorful meat sauce is the heart of a classic lasagna. The Better Homes and Gardens Lasagna Recipe from 1953 features a slow-simmered sauce that enhances the dish’s depth and taste.

Ingredients for the Meat Sauce: (Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
1/2 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity in tomatoes)
1/2 cup water or red wine (for deeper flavor)

Cooking Instructions for the Sauce Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

Sauté the onions and garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onions until soft, then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Brown the meat: Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add tomatoes and seasoning: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Mix well.
Season and simmer: Add basil, oregano, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and sugar. Pour in water or red wine. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

For the Rest of the Lasagna (Better homes and gardens lasagna receipe 1953)

Once your sauce is ready, it’s time to prepare the pasta layers and cheese filling—key elements in achieving the perfect Better Homes and Gardens-style lasagna.

Ingredients for Lasagna Layers: Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

12 lasagna noodles (boiled until al dente)
1 container (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)

Preparation Steps: (Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Prepare the cheese filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, beaten egg, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley. Stir until well combined.
Layer the lasagna: In a 9×13-inch baking dish:
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
- Add a layer of cooked lasagna noodles.
- Spread a portion of the ricotta mixture evenly.
- Sprinkle some mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce and shredded mozzarella on top.

Final Baking Instructions Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cover with foil (to prevent cheese from burning) and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Variations of the Classic Recipe Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

The Better Homes and Gardens Lasagna Recipe from 1953 is a timeless classic, but there are many ways to customize it based on your taste preferences, dietary needs, or time constraints. Whether you need a quick version, a vegetarian option, or a creamy bechamel-based lasagna, these variations will help you make lasagna your way!

Quick Lasagna Variation (Better homes and gardens lasagna receipe 1953)

If you’re short on time but still craving homemade lasagna, this quick and easy variation simplifies the process while keeping the rich flavors intact.

Key Time-Saving Adjustments: Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles – Saves boiling time and absorbs flavors as they bake.
Pre-made Marinara Sauce – Speeds up sauce preparation (choose a quality brand with no added sugar).
Ground Turkey or Sausage – Cooks faster than traditional ground beef.
Shredded Cheese Mix – Instead of mixing ricotta with egg, use a pre-shredded blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone.

How to Make Quick Lasagna: Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

Brown the meat in a skillet with onions and garlic.
Stir in store-bought marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes.
Layer the lasagna in a baking dish:
- Sauce → No-boil noodles → Cheese → Repeat.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes (covered) + 10 minutes uncovered for a golden top.
Let it rest for 5 minutes, then serve!

Vegetable Lasagna Variation Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

For a healthy, vegetarian twist, this Vegetable Lasagna Variation replaces the meat sauce with a hearty, flavorful veggie filling.

Best Vegetables to Use: Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

Zucchini & Eggplant – Adds a meaty texture.
Spinach & Mushrooms – Boosts nutrients and enhances umami.
Bell Peppers & Carrots – Sweetens the sauce naturally.
Onions & Garlic – Essential for depth of flavor.

How to Make Vegetable Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

Sauté vegetables in olive oil with garlic and onions until tender.
Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
Prepare the ricotta mixture as in the classic recipe.
Layer the lasagna:
- Sauce → Noodles → Ricotta mixture → Vegetables → Repeat.
Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Lasagna with Bechamel Variation

This luxurious lasagna replaces the ricotta cheese mixture with a creamy bechamel sauce, creating a rich, velvety texture.

How to Make Bechamel Sauce: Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

Melt 4 tbsp butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes (until golden).
Gradually add 3 cups of warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Season with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp white pepper.
Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.

How to Assemble Bechamel Lasagna: Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

Layer the lasagna as usual, but replace ricotta with bechamel.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese between layers.
Bake at 375°F for 40 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Tips & Notes Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)

To make the best lasagna, follow these expert tips and recommendations.

Recommended Cheesy Pasta Recipes

If you love cheesy, comforting pasta dishes, try these delicious alternatives to classic lasagna:

✔ Baked Spaghetti Pie – A fun twist on traditional spaghetti with layers of cheese and marinara.
✔ Lasagna Rolls – Individual rolled-up lasagna sheets stuffed with ricotta, mozzarella, and meat sauce.
✔ Pepperoni Mac & Cheese – A kid-friendly pasta bake with gooey cheese and spicy pepperoni.
✔ Baked Spasagna – A hybrid of spaghetti and lasagna, baked with a creamy cheese sauce.

Equipment Needed

Before you start, make sure you have all the essential kitchen tools for an easy lasagna-making process.

✔ 9×13” Baking Dish – The ideal size for baking lasagna evenly.
✔ Large Skillet – For preparing the meat sauce.
✔ Mixing Bowls – To mix cheese fillings and sauces.
✔ Whisk & Wooden Spoon – For stirring sauces and preventing lumps.
✔ Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping onions, garlic, and vegetables.
✔ Aluminum Foil – To cover lasagna while baking to prevent burning.
✔ Oven Thermometer – Ensures the correct baking temperature for perfect results.

Should Lasagna Be 3 or 4 Layers?

Traditional lasagna has at least three layers, but four layers create a more substantial dish.

✔ 3 Layers – Good for smaller portions, quicker baking.
✔ 4 Layers – Creates a heartier lasagna with better structure.

Pro Tip: Always start with a sauce layer and end with cheese on top for the best results.

What Is the Correct Order to Layer Lasagna?

For the perfect lasagna, follow this classic layering method:

1️⃣ Thin layer of sauce (prevents noodles from sticking).
2️⃣ Lasagna noodles (overlapping slightly).
3️⃣ Ricotta cheese mixture (spread evenly).
4️⃣ Meat sauce or vegetable filling.
5️⃣ Repeat layers (3-4 times).
6️⃣ Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.

What Can I Add to My Lasagna to Make It Taste Better?

Enhance the flavor of your lasagna with these simple tricks:

✔ Use Fresh Herbs – Add fresh basil and parsley for an authentic taste.
✔ Mix Different Cheeses – Blend mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and fontina.
✔ Add Red Wine to the Sauce – A splash of red wine enriches the meat sauce.
✔ Use Roasted Garlic – Enhances depth and sweetness in the sauce.
✔ Try a Pinch of Nutmeg in Ricotta – Brings out the creaminess in the cheese filling.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) (Should Lasagna Be 3 or 4 Layers?)

Understanding the nutritional value of Better Homes and Gardens Lasagna Recipe (1953) helps with portion control and dietary planning.

Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving – 1 Slice of Lasagna)

✔ Calories: ~450-500 kcal
✔ Protein: 30g
✔ Carbohydrates: 40g
✔ Fat: 20g
✔ Saturated Fat: 10g
✔ Cholesterol: 70mg
✔ Sodium: 750mg
✔ Fiber: 4g
✔ Sugar: 6g

Healthier Lasagna Substitutes

If you’re looking to reduce calories or carbs, try these options:

✔ Use Whole Wheat or Lentil Noodles – Higher fiber and protein.
✔ Substitute Cottage Cheese for Ricotta – Lower in fat, higher in protein.
✔ Choose Lean Ground Turkey Instead of Beef – Reduces saturated fat.
✔ Load Up on Vegetables – Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini for extra nutrients.

Lasagna receipe 1953 (Better homes and gardens)