Smoked Lasagna Recipe
If you love the taste of traditional lasagna, I have a variation that I think you'll enjoy: smoked lasagna! This dish is perfect for sharing at family gatherings or with friends. Plus, the smoking process gives the lasagna an incredible aroma that will draw everyone to the table.
What makes it so special?
- While lasagna is a dish we all know and love, with its layers of pasta, sauce, meat, and cheese, this recipe takes it to the next level. Originating from Italy, specifically the Emilia-Romagna region, lasagna has been a staple of Italian cuisine for centuries. But have you ever tried smoked lasagna? This version adds a unique, deep flavor that can only be achieved through smoking.
- If you're not familiar with what I mean, let me explain. The concept of smoking food was initially used as a preservation method. However, in modern cooking, smoking is primarily used to add flavor. In the case of smoked lasagna, this process gives it a rustic and robust touch that is simply irresistible.
Smoked lasagna combines Italian tradition with the art of smoking, which is very popular in American cuisine, especially in the South. This combination of elements creates a dish that is rich, flavorful, and full of character. And preparing smoked lasagna isn't as complicated as it might seem. You just need your favorite lasagna recipe and a smoker or a grill with smoking capabilities. That's it!
So, I hope you get inspired to try this recipe. You'll find the complete recipe below. Enjoy and bon appétit!
Smoked lasagna takes the traditional Italian favorite to a new level by adding a unique, deep smoky flavor. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this dish combines layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and a hint of rustic smoke. It's a comforting, hearty meal that is sure to impress.
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
- Prepare the smoker
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
- Cook the meat sauce
Cook the meat sauce: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is tender. Stir in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Boil the noodles
While the sauce is simmering, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the ricotta mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- Assemble the lasagna
In a large baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of meat sauce and a final sprinkling of mozzarella, Parmesan, and smoked gouda cheese.
- Smoke the lasagna
Place the baking dish in the smoker and smoke at 225°F (110°C) for 1 hour to infuse the lasagna with a smoky flavor.
- Bake the lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the lasagna from the smoker to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and serve
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25g39%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with a mix of smoked vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and mushrooms.
- You can prepare the meat sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it to save time on the day of cooking.
- The smoked gouda adds an extra layer of smoky flavor, but you can use any smoked cheese you prefer.
