If you’re searching for the perfect lasagna San Giorgio recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This dish, inspired by the renowned San Giorgio lasagna recipe on the box, offers a perfect blend of rich, cheesy layers, savory meat sauce, and perfectly baked pasta. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a weekend treat, or a special occasion, this classic recipe never disappoints.
In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the San Giorgio lasagna recipe, provide real-life tips, and offer step-by-step instructions so you can recreate this dish with ease. So, let’s dive in and explore how to make the ultimate lasagna recipe in San Giorgio style.
San Giorgio, a beloved pasta brand, has become synonymous with high-quality ingredients that ensure your lasagna is as authentic and satisfying as possible. San Giorgio Pasta has been serving delicious meals to families for decades.
1. What Is the San Giorgio Lasagna Recipe?
The San Giorgio lasagna recipe is a classic Italian-American comfort food that combines layers of high-quality pasta, a hearty meat sauce, a creamy cheese mixture, and melted mozzarella. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s been passed down through generations and made with San Giorgio’s premium pasta products. This lasagna recipe has become an iconic representation of traditional home-cooked meals.
The basic steps of the recipe involve cooking lasagna noodles, preparing a flavorful meat sauce, and layering the ingredients in a baking dish. The final product is then baked to perfection, resulting in a melty, cheesy, and satisfying meal.
2. History and Legacy of San Giorgio
San Giorgio was founded in 1914 in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, and has since become one of the most trusted names in the pasta industry. Known for its commitment to quality and tradition, San Giorgio has been a staple in kitchens across America for over 100 years.
The San Giorgio lasagna recipe on the box was created to help home cooks create a traditional lasagna quickly and easily without compromising on taste or texture. Over time, the recipe has become a go-to for anyone looking to make an authentic, satisfying lasagna.
San Giorgio continues to provide high-quality pasta, which is why their lasagna recipe remains popular to this day.
3. Why San Giorgio Lasagna is a Family Favorite
What makes the San Giorgio lasagna recipe stand out is its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. This dish brings families together, making it an excellent choice for any gathering. The layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella create a comforting meal that everyone loves.
Here are a few reasons why the San Giorgio lasagna recipe is a family favorite:
- Easy to follow: The recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
- Generous portions: This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd, making it ideal for family meals and dinner parties.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe by adding vegetables, switching meats, or making it vegetarian.
- Perfect for leftovers: Lasagna always tastes better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
4. Ingredients You Need for the Lasagna San Giorgio Recipe
To make San Giorgio lasagna, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Pasta:
- 12 San Giorgio Lasagna Noodles (uncooked)
Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef (or sausage)
- 1 chopped onion
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups pasta sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheese Layer:
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Add-ins: Fresh basil, spinach, mushrooms, zucchini
This combination of ingredients gives you a traditional, well-balanced lasagna with the perfect texture and taste.
5. Equipment Checklist for Making Lasagna
Before you start, make sure you have the following equipment:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large saucepan for meat sauce
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon or spatula
- Colander for draining noodles
- Aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
- Large pot for boiling noodles
Having all your tools in place will make the process of assembling your lasagna much smoother.
6. Step-by-Step Guide to Making San Giorgio Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large saucepan, cook the ground beef or sausage with the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat. Stir occasionally to break the meat into crumbles.
- Once the meat is browned, drain any excess fat, then add your pasta or marinara sauce—season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
- Boil the lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted water until they are al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain and set them aside. Lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add a layer of lasagna noodles on top, followed by a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture, more meat sauce, and a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring that it doesn’t touch the cheese. Bake for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and bubble.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.
7. Tips for the Perfect Lasagna Every Time
Here are some tips to make sure your Lasagna San Giorgio Recipe turns out perfectly every time:
- Use whole-milk ricotta for a creamier texture.
- Rest the lasagna after baking to help the layers set and make for cleaner slices.
- Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings and freeze the extra for later.
- Don’t overcook the noodles, as they’ll continue cooking while baking in the lasagna.
8. Variations of the Lasagna San Giorgio Recipe
While the classic Lasagna San Giorgio Recipe is delicious on its own, you can try several variations to suit your tastes:
Vegetarian Lasagna
- Replace the meat with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a lighter, vegetable-packed lasagna.
White Lasagna (Lasagna Bianca)
- Use béchamel (a white sauce) instead of marinara sauce for a creamier version.
Gluten-Free Lasagna
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Four-Cheese Lasagna
- Add extra cheese like ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone for a cheesier lasagna.
Low-Carb Lasagna
- Replace noodles with zucchini or eggplant slices.
9. Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Lasagna San Giorgio Recipe can be stored and enjoyed later.
Refrigeration:
- Store the lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing:
- Freeze individual slices or the whole dish in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- To reheat, place the lasagna in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes. If reheating from frozen, cover with foil and bake for 45–60 minutes.
Freezing the lasagna allows the flavors to meld together even more, and it can be a lifesaver on busy days.
10. Lasagna San Giorgio Recipe vs. Other Lasagna Recipes
Recipe TypeFlavor ProfileIngredients Used
San Giorgio Rich & Cheesy Ricotta, beef, pasta sauce, mozzarella
Classic Italian Lighter & Layered Béchamel, pork ragu, fresh pasta
Vegetarian Fresh & Nutritious Zucchini, spinach, ricotta
11. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the noodles makes them mushy.
- Undercooking the sauce: can make lasagna watery.
- Skipping the resting time makes the lasagna fall apart when cutting.
- Using low-fat cheese: can be dry.
- Layering unevenly creates an unbalanced texture.
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I make my Lasagna San Giorgio Recipe extra cheesy?
If you’re a cheese lover, making your Lasagna San Giorgio Recipe extra cheesy is easy and incredibly delicious. Here are a few tips to amp up the cheese factor:
- Add more cheese layers: When assembling your lasagna, try adding an extra layer of mozzarella or provolone between the pasta sheets and cheese mixture. This extra cheese will melt perfectly between the layers and add a rich, gooey texture.
- Use multiple types of cheese: Mixing different cheeses can give your lasagna a complex and flavorful profile. You can use ricotta for creaminess, mozzarella for meltiness, Parmesan for a salty bite, and even fontina or gouda for a touch of smokiness.
- Top it off: After baking, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan or extra mozzarella on top before putting the lasagna back in the oven for the last few minutes of baking. This will create a beautiful golden, crispy cheese crust on top of the lasagna.
Adding more cheese will not only make your lasagna extra cheesy but also enhance the overall flavor, giving it that rich, indulgent taste many crave.
2. Can I add vegetables to this lasagna?
Yes, absolutely! San Giorgio lasagna is versatile and easily customizable. Adding vegetables is a great way to enhance the nutrition and flavor of the dish. Here are some delicious vegetable additions:
- Spinach: Add fresh or frozen spinach between the layers of pasta for a burst of green and added vitamins. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it to avoid excess moisture.
- Mushrooms: Sauté some mushrooms and layer them into the sauce for an earthy, savory flavor. Mushrooms pair wonderfully with the rich cheese and meat sauce.
- Zucchini: Thinly sliced zucchini adds moisture and texture. For a slightly different twist, you can roast the zucchini first to concentrate its flavor.
- Bell peppers: Roasted bell peppers add a hint of sweetness and a pop of color. Try using red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for variety.
- Eggplant: Sautéed eggplant works wonderfully in a vegetarian lasagna. Its meaty texture makes it an excellent meat substitute, and it soaks up the flavors of the sauce.
These additions will elevate your lasagna by adding freshness and depth of flavor. You can either layer them in between the noodles and sauce or mix them directly into the meat sauce.
3. How can I make my lasagna gluten-free?
Making San Giorgio lasagna gluten-free is possible, and it’s easy to adapt the recipe to suit those with gluten sensitivities or preferences. Here’s how you can make a gluten-free version:
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles: Brands like Barilla, Banza, or Jovial offer gluten-free pasta that holds up well when baked in lasagna. These noodles are made from rice flour or chickpea flour, and they work just as effectively as regular lasagna noodles.
- Ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free: Most of the ingredients in the San Giorgio lasagna recipe are naturally gluten-free, such as ricotta, mozzarella, and meat sauce. Just make sure your marinara sauce or pasta sauce is gluten-free, as some store-bought sauces contain hidden gluten (like in thickeners or preservatives).
- Be cautious with fillers in cheese: Some brands of pre-grated cheese use anti-caking agents that may contain gluten. Opt for freshly grated cheese or check the label for gluten-free certification.
Making gluten-free lasagna doesn’t compromise flavor or texture. With the right ingredients, your gluten-free lasagna will be just as satisfying and delicious as the traditional version.
4. Can I make the lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can make San Giorgio lasagna ahead of time, which makes it an excellent dish for busy evenings, meal prepping, or preparing for family gatherings. Here’s how:
- Assemble the lasagna in advance: You can prepare the lasagna the night before and refrigerate it. Just assemble all the layers and cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before popping it in the oven. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
- Freeze it: Lasagna is also perfect for freezing. Once assembled, wrap the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap and foil, ensuring no air gets in. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake it directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour or until it’s heated through. If thawed in the fridge overnight, it will only need about 45 minutes to bake.
Preparing your lasagna ahead of time not only saves you time on busy days but also allows the flavors to meld together even more, making it even tastier when you finally serve it.
5. What’s the best way to store leftover lasagna?
Storing leftovers properly ensures that your San Giorgio lasagna stays fresh and delicious. Here’s how:
- Refrigerating: Once the lasagna has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Leftover lasagna can stay fresh for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to cover the container tightly to prevent the lasagna from drying out.
- Freezing: If you want to keep the leftovers for longer, freezing lasagna is a great option. Slice the lasagna into individual portions and wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. Lasagna can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to reheat, thaw the slices in the fridge overnight or bake them directly from frozen.
- Reheating: To reheat, cover the lasagna with foil and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes. If reheating from frozen, cover with foil and bake for 45–60 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for 2–3 minutes on high.
Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy your San Giorgio lasagna throughout the week without losing its flavor or texture.
6. Can I use oven-ready lasagna sheets?
Yes! Oven-ready lasagna sheets (also known as no-boil noodles) can be used in place of regular lasagna noodles in the San Giorgio lasagna recipe. The great thing about these noodles is that they don’t require pre-boiling before use, which saves you time and reduces the mess.
Here’s how to use oven-ready noodles:
- Layer the noodles directly into the baking dish without boiling them first. The sauce will soften them during the baking process, making them tender and perfectly cooked.
- Extra sauce: Since oven-ready noodles don’t absorb as much liquid as traditional noodles, you’ll need to use a little extra sauce. This ensures that the noodles cook properly and absorb enough moisture for a flavorful dish.
Using oven-ready lasagna sheets simplifies the process, making the recipe faster and easier while still delivering excellent results.
7. How can I make my lasagna spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, making your San Giorgio lasagna spicier is easy. Here are a few ways to add some spice:
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to taste. This will infuse the sauce with a subtle heat that complements the richness of the lasagna.
- Spicy sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild sausage or ground beef. The extra kick from the sausage will add an exciting flavor to your lasagna.
- Hot sauce: For a more direct kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat sauce or even drizzle it over the top before serving.
- Jalapeños or chilies: If you want to go all out, try adding finely chopped fresh jalapeños or other hot peppers to the sauce for a bold, fiery flavor.
Adjust the amount of heat based on your preference, and enjoy a spicier version of your favorite San Giorgio lasagna recipe.
8. How long should I bake the lasagna?
The baking time for San Giorgio lasagna is typically around 45 to 50 minutes at 375°F (190°C). However, the exact baking time can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the lasagna layers.
- Covered baking: Start by covering the lasagna with foil to trap moisture. Bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Uncovered baking: Remove the foil for the last 20 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to become golden and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, you can leave it uncovered for the entire baking time.
- Resting time: Once out of the oven, let your lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve without the sauce running. Proper baking ensures that your San Giorgio lasagna has the perfect texture, with layers that hold together beautifully when sliced.
13. Conclusion
The San Giorgio lasagna recipe is a classic dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. By following this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll create a delicious, satisfying meal that your family will love. Whether you make it with traditional ingredients or customize it with your favorite additions, this recipe is sure to be a hit every time.
For more San Giorgio lasagna recipe inspiration, visit San Giorgio Pasta.
Lasagna San Giorgio Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Colander
- Aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 12 San Giorgio lasagna noodles uncooked
- 1 lb ground beef or sausage
- 1 chopped onion
- 2 –3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 cups marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 1 15 oz container ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: fresh basil spinach, mushrooms, zucchini
Instructions
- Prepare meat sauce: Brown ground beef, onion, and garlic in saucepan. Drain fat, add sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer 15-20 minutes.
- Cook noodles: Boil noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and lay flat on parchment paper.
- Mix cheese: Combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in baking dish. Layer noodles, ricotta mix, meat sauce, and mozzarella. Repeat 3 layers, ending with mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil (avoid cheese contact), bake 25 minutes. Remove foil, bake 20 more minutes until golden.
- Rest: Let cool 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
You can check out my recipes here.
