Ina Garten’s Lasagna with Goat Cheese
Creamy goat cheese meets savory sausage in this comforting classic.
Ina Garten, the beloved Barefoot Contessa, has a way of turning classic comfort food into something extraordinary. Her lasagna with goat cheese is a standout recipe that combines the richness of Italian sausage, the creaminess of goat cheese, and the freshness of herbs for a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a special gathering, this lasagna is sure to impress.
Why This Lasagna Stands Out
What sets Ina Garten’s lasagna apart is the thoughtful combination of ingredients. The use of goat cheese adds a tangy, creamy layer that complements the savory sausage and bright tomato sauce. The fresh herbs—parsley and basil—bring a burst of flavor, while the layers of mozzarella and Parmesan create a gooey, golden finish. This recipe is a perfect balance of richness and freshness, making it a favorite among home cooks and food lovers alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Ina Garten’s lasagna with goat cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1.5 pounds sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley, divided
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Kosher salt and pepper
- 1/2 pound lasagna noodles
- 16 ounces ricotta cheese
- 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup Parmesan, grated, plus 1/4 cup for sprinkling
- 1 extra-large egg, lightly beaten
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create Ina Garten’s lasagna with goat cheese:
1. Prepare the Sauce
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until no longer pink. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, 2 tablespoons of parsley, basil, 1.5 teaspoons of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Simmer the sauce, uncovered, for 20 minutes, or until thickened.
2. Soak the Lasagna Noodles
While the sauce is simmering, fill a large casserole dish with the hottest water from the tap. Lay the lasagna noodles in the water and allow them to soak for 20 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, crumbled goat cheese, 1 cup of grated Parmesan, the lightly beaten egg, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of parsley. Mix well and set aside.
4. Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, ladle 1/3 of the sauce into the bottom and spread it evenly. Add the following layers:
- Half of the soaked lasagna noodles
- Half of the fresh mozzarella slices
- Half of the ricotta-goat cheese mixture
- 1/3 of the sauce
Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake the Lasagna
Bake the lasagna for 30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the top is golden. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Customization Tips
Ina Garten’s lasagna is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Use hot Italian turkey sausage instead of pork sausage for a lighter version.
- Add roasted vegetables, such as eggplant or zucchini, for a vegetarian twist.
- Swap goat cheese for ricotta if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or thyme, for a unique taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving for the best results.
Can I freeze this lasagna?
Yes, this lasagna freezes well. Assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I serve with this lasagna?
This lasagna pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles. Just make sure to add a little extra sauce to keep the noodles moist during baking.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
Why This Recipe Works
Ina Garten’s lasagna with goat cheese works because it balances rich, savory flavors with creamy, tangy elements. The Italian sausage adds depth, while the goat cheese brings a unique creaminess that sets this dish apart from traditional lasagnas. The fresh herbs brighten the dish, and the layers of cheese create a satisfying, gooey texture. This recipe is a testament to Ina’s ability to elevate classic comfort food with thoughtful ingredient choices.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the step of soaking the lasagna noodles—they’ll cook perfectly in the oven.
- Let the lasagna rest before serving to allow the layers to set.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs to make the recipe your own.
Conclusion
Ina Garten’s lasagna with goat cheese is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves comfort food with a twist. The combination of Italian sausage, goat cheese, and fresh herbs creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this lasagna is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and discover why it’s one of Ina’s most beloved recipes.
