Johnsonville Italian Sausage Lasagna: A Flavor-Packed Family Favorite

Lasagna is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. While traditional lasagna is delicious, this recipe elevates the dish by using Johnsonville Italian sausage, adding a burst of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. This Johnsonville Italian Sausage Lasagna is a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. It combines the rich taste of Italian sausage with creamy ricotta cheese, tangy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked lasagna noodles. Get ready to create a lasagna masterpiece that will impress your friends and family!

## Why Johnsonville Italian Sausage?

Johnsonville Italian sausage is a key ingredient that sets this lasagna apart. Its robust flavor and perfect blend of spices add depth and complexity that you won’t find with other sausages. You can use either mild or hot Italian sausage, depending on your preference. If you’re feeding a crowd with varying spice tolerances, mild is always a safe bet. However, if you love a little kick, hot Italian sausage will add a delightful warmth to the dish. The pre-cooked nature of many Johnsonville sausages also reduces cooking time, making this recipe even more convenient. Just be sure you are purchasing sausage from your local provider and adhere to health safety standards of where you live.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. This will make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s a comprehensive list:

* **Johnsonville Italian Sausage:** 1 pound, casings removed (mild or hot, your choice)
* **Lasagna Noodles:** 1 box (oven-ready or regular)
* **Ricotta Cheese:** 1 (15-ounce) container
* **Egg:** 1 large
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/2 cup, grated
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** 4 cups, shredded (divided)
* **Tomato Sauce:** 1 (24-ounce) jar
* **Tomato Paste:** 1 (6-ounce) can
* **Water:** 1/2 cup
* **Onion:** 1 medium, chopped
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons
* **Dried Oregano:** 1 teaspoon
* **Dried Basil:** 1 teaspoon
* **Salt:** To taste
* **Black Pepper:** To taste
* **Fresh Parsley:** 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

**Ingredient Substitutions and Variations:**

* **Sausage:** If you can’t find Johnsonville Italian sausage, you can use another brand or substitute with ground beef or turkey. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based crumbles.
* **Lasagna Noodles:** Oven-ready noodles are incredibly convenient, but regular lasagna noodles work just as well. You’ll just need to pre-cook them according to the package directions.
* **Ricotta Cheese:** Cottage cheese can be used as a substitute, but drain it well to remove excess moisture.
* **Tomato Sauce:** Use your favorite brand or homemade tomato sauce. You can also add a can of diced tomatoes for extra texture.
* **Cheese:** Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Provolone, Asiago, or Fontina would all be delicious additions.
* **Vegetables:** Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the sausage mixture for added nutrients and flavor.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get started! Follow these detailed steps to create a lasagna that will impress.

**1. Prepare the Sausage Mixture:**

* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
* Add the Johnsonville Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon.
* Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
* Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
* Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

**Detailed Tips for the Sausage Mixture:**

* **Browning the Sausage:** Ensure the sausage is browned evenly. This enhances its flavor and texture.
* **Deglazing the Pan:** After browning the sausage, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavor. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate them into the sauce.
* **Simmering the Sauce:** Simmering the sauce is crucial for developing its flavor. Don’t rush this step. The longer it simmers, the richer and more complex the sauce will become.
* **Seasoning:** Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, oregano, or basil to suit your preference.

**2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:**

* In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese.
* Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
* Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

**Detailed Tips for the Cheese Mixture:**

* **Room Temperature Ricotta:** Using ricotta cheese at room temperature will make it easier to mix and create a smoother texture.
* **Egg Binding:** The egg acts as a binding agent, helping the cheese mixture hold its shape during baking.
* **Parmesan Flavor:** Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-grated Parmesan often contains cellulose, which can affect the texture.
* **Mixing Consistency:** Ensure the mixture is well combined but avoid overmixing, which can make it dense.

**3. Assemble the Lasagna:**

* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
* Spread a thin layer of the sausage mixture on the bottom of the dish.
* If using regular lasagna noodles, layer them over the sauce, overlapping as needed. If using oven-ready noodles, arrange them in a single layer.
* Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
* Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the ricotta cheese mixture.
* Repeat layers: sausage mixture, noodles, ricotta cheese mixture, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
* Top with the remaining sausage mixture and the remaining 2 cups of mozzarella cheese.

**Detailed Tips for Assembling the Lasagna:**

* **Layering Order:** The order of layers can slightly affect the final result. Starting and ending with sauce helps keep the noodles moist and prevents them from drying out.
* **Noodle Coverage:** Ensure the noodles are fully covered with sauce and cheese. This prevents them from becoming dry and hard.
* **Cheese Distribution:** Distribute the cheese evenly across each layer to ensure every bite is cheesy and delicious.
* **Preventing Overflow:** Be mindful of the amount of filling you use in each layer. Overfilling can cause the lasagna to overflow during baking.
* **Using Oven-Ready Noodles:** If using oven-ready noodles, make sure they are well moistened by the sauce. Dry noodles may not cook properly.

**4. Bake the Lasagna:**

* Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
* Bake for 30 minutes.
* Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.
* Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting and serving.
* Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

**Detailed Tips for Baking the Lasagna:**

* **Covering with Foil:** Covering the lasagna with foil during the first part of baking helps to trap moisture and prevent the top from burning.
* **Baking Time:** Baking time may vary depending on your oven. Use a fork to test if the noodles are tender. If not, continue baking for a few more minutes.
* **Cheese Browning:** If the cheese is browning too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly or tent the lasagna with foil.
* **Resting Time:** Allowing the lasagna to rest before cutting is crucial. This allows the cheese to set and the layers to meld together, making it easier to slice and serve.

## Serving Suggestions

This Johnsonville Italian Sausage Lasagna is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes:

* **Garlic Bread:** Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts make a healthy and flavorful side dish.
* **Wine:** A glass of Chianti or Merlot complements the Italian flavors of the lasagna.

## Tips for Making Ahead and Storing

This lasagna is perfect for making ahead of time. You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.

**Storing Leftovers:**

* Let the lasagna cool completely before storing.
* Cut the lasagna into individual portions.
* Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or place them in airtight containers.
* Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

**Freezing Lasagna:**

* Let the lasagna cool completely before freezing.
* Cut the lasagna into individual portions.
* Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap again in aluminum foil.
* Place the wrapped portions in freezer bags.
* Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

**Reheating Lasagna:**

* **From Refrigerator:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the lasagna in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the texture may be slightly different.
* **From Freezer:** Thaw the lasagna in the refrigerator overnight. Then, follow the instructions for reheating from the refrigerator.

## Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about lasagna is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version.

* **Vegetarian Lasagna:** Replace the sausage with a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, spinach, and mushrooms. Add a layer of pesto for extra flavor.
* **Chicken Lasagna:** Use shredded cooked chicken instead of sausage. Mix the chicken with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a decadent twist.
* **Spicy Lasagna:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for extra heat. Use hot Italian sausage or add a layer of sliced jalapeños.
* **White Lasagna:** Replace the tomato sauce with a béchamel sauce for a creamy and rich lasagna. Add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a flavorful filling.
* **Mexican Lasagna:** Use ground beef seasoned with taco seasoning instead of sausage. Add layers of black beans, corn, salsa, and cheddar cheese.

## Common Mistakes to Avoid

While lasagna is relatively easy to make, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

* **Overcooking the Noodles:** Overcooked noodles can become mushy and fall apart. If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
* **Using Too Much Sauce:** Too much sauce can make the lasagna watery and difficult to slice. Use just enough sauce to moisten the noodles and other ingredients.
* **Not Draining the Sausage:** Draining the excess grease from the sausage is crucial. Otherwise, the lasagna will be greasy and heavy.
* **Skipping the Resting Time:** Allowing the lasagna to rest before cutting is essential. This allows the cheese to set and the layers to meld together, making it easier to slice and serve.
* **Burning the Cheese:** Keep an eye on the cheese while baking. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature or tent the lasagna with foil.

## Johnsonville Italian Sausage Lasagna Recipe Card

**Yields:** 8-10 servings
**Prep time:** 30 minutes
**Cook time:** 45-50 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound Johnsonville Italian sausage, casings removed (mild or hot)
* 1 box lasagna noodles (oven-ready or regular)
* 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
* 1 large egg
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
* 1 (24-ounce) jar tomato sauce
* 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
* 1/2 cup water
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

**Equipment:**

* Large skillet
* Medium bowl
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Aluminum foil

**Instructions**

1. **Prepare the Sausage Mixture:**
* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
* Add the Johnsonville Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon.
* Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
* Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
* Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
2. **Prepare the Cheese Mixture:**
* In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese.
* Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
* Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. **Assemble the Lasagna:**
* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
* Spread a thin layer of the sausage mixture on the bottom of the dish.
* If using regular lasagna noodles, layer them over the sauce, overlapping as needed. If using oven-ready noodles, arrange them in a single layer.
* Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
* Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the ricotta cheese mixture.
* Repeat layers: sausage mixture, noodles, ricotta cheese mixture, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
* Top with the remaining sausage mixture and the remaining 2 cups of mozzarella cheese.
4. **Bake the Lasagna:**
* Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
* Bake for 30 minutes.
* Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.
* Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting and serving.
* Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

* Calories: 450-550
* Protein: 30-35g
* Fat: 25-30g
* Carbohydrates: 30-35g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

## Conclusion

This Johnsonville Italian Sausage Lasagna is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of flavorful sausage, creamy cheese, and tangy tomato sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this lasagna is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious and satisfying meal! Don’t forget to share your lasagna creations with us on social media using #JohnsonvilleLasagna – we can’t wait to see your culinary masterpieces!