In the heart of winter, there's nothing quite like a comforting, home-cooked meal to warm your soul. Today we are sharing a delightful comfort meal idea that's perfect for cozy evenings in Fillmore County—Homemade Lasagna! I am a pasta girl at heart, it’s the ultimate comfort food, my personal specialty!

Why Lasagna? It’s the ultimate comfort food! Layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and melted cheese come together and promise to bring comfort with every bite. Plus, the aroma of a baking lasagna fills your home with a sense of warmth and anticipation. (Side note: don’t forget to burn that locally purchased candle for an extra cozy effect.)

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

• In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until beef is browned; drain excess fat.

• Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, sugar, basil, and salt. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

• In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese and beaten eggs.

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• In a 9x13-inch baking dish, layer noodles, meat sauce, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat layers, ending with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

• Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

• Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.

Share this meal with loved ones or savor it as a solo treat. After all, comfort food is meant to be shared and enjoyed. Stay warm!