Homemade Lasagna Recipe Under $2 Per Serving

Discover how to make a delicious and budget-friendly lasagna at home for less than $2 per serving.

Key Takeaway: Create a flavorful lasagna from scratch without breaking the bank, using simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.

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Introduction

Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that often comes with a hefty price tag at restaurants. Learn how to make it affordably at home while maintaining its delicious flavors.

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Ingredients and Cost Breakdown

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients needed to make lasagna for under $2 per serving:

Ingredient	Quantity	Cost (approx.)
Ground Beef	1 lb	$3.50
Ground Pork	3/4 lb	$2.60
Garlic	5 cloves	<$0.50
Yellow Onion	1 medium	$0.50
Tomato Paste	6 oz can	$0.80
Crushed Tomatoes	28 oz can	$1.00
Ricotta Cheese	15 oz	$2.00
Mozzarella Cheese	8 oz	$2.00
Parmesan Cheese	1/3 cup	$0.50
Lasagna Noodles	10-12 sheets	$1.50
Total Cost per Serving		<$2.00

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Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare Homemade Lasagna Noodles (Optional)

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cost: $1.50 for homemade noodles

1. Make Noodle Dough:

• Combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 3 egg yolks, and 2 whole eggs. Knead until smooth, rest for 30 minutes, then roll out and cut into sheets.

1. Boil Noodles:

• Cook homemade or store-bought lasagna noodles in salted water until slightly undercooked. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare Meat Sauce

• Cook Time: 30 mins
• Cost: $8.40 for meat and sauce ingredients

1. Brown Meat:

• Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a pot. Sear 1 lb ground beef and 3/4 lb ground pork until browned. Break meat into fine pieces with a masher.

1. Add Aromatics and Seasonings:

• Cook 5 cloves of sliced garlic and 1 finely diced onion until fragrant. Stir in 2 tsp fennel seed powder, salt, and pepper.

1. Simmer Sauce:

• Stir in 6 oz tomato paste and cook until caramelized. Add 28 oz crushed tomatoes, simmer for 5-7 mins, adjust seasoning.

3. Prepare Cheese Mixture

• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cost: $4.50 for cheese ingredients

1. Mix Cheeses:

• Combine 15 oz ricotta, 8 oz shredded mozzarella, and 1/3 cup grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Assemble and Bake Lasagna

• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Cost: <$2.00 per serving

1. Layering:

• Spread a cup of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and cheese. Repeat.

1. Bake:

• Cover with greased foil, bake at 375°F for 25 mins. Uncover and bake 30-35 mins until bubbly and golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

• Total Time: 2 hours
• Cost: <$2.00 per serving

1. Rest and Serve:

• Let lasagna cool for 15 mins before slicing into squares. Serve hot and enjoy a homemade meal that’s both economical and delicious.

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Conclusion

Making lasagna at home is not only cost-effective but also allows you to customize flavors and ingredients to your liking. Whether you choose to make homemade noodles or use store-bought, the result is a hearty, satisfying dish that won’t strain your wallet.

Next time you’re craving lasagna, skip the expensive restaurant option and follow this simple guide to create a budget-friendly masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy a delicious homemade lasagna that’s as good as any gourmet meal, all while saving money.