Imagine a lasagne that breaks all the traditional rules - a mouthwatering fusion of creamy Italian cheeses, savory ground pork, and vibrant broccoli that transforms the classic comfort dish into an extraordinary culinary experience. This isn't just another lasagne; it's a gourmet adventure that combines rustic Italian flavors with modern cooking techniques, promising to elevate your dinner table from ordinary to extraordinary. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a recipe that's as delicious as it is unexpected!
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground pork
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup tallegio cheese, cubed
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground pork over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook for 8-10 minutes until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
- Steam the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Chop into smaller pieces after steaming.
- Cook lasagna noodles in salted boiling water according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the chopped broccoli and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried oregano.
- Begin layering the lasagne: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Place three lasagna noodles as the first layer.
- Spread the ricotta-broccoli mixture over the noodles. Top with half the cooked ground pork and scatter cubed tallegio cheese.
- Add another layer of noodles, then cover with marinara sauce, remaining pork, broccoli pieces, and tallegio cubes.
- Place the final layer of noodles, cover completely with marinara sauce, and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil for the last 15 minutes to allow cheese to brown and bubble.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.
- Slice into portions and serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- For the most tender and flavorful ground pork, choose meat with a slight fat content (around 15-20%) to ensure juiciness.
- Steam broccoli just until bright green to maintain its nutritional value and prevent overcooking.
- Use high-quality tallegio cheese for the most authentic and rich flavor profile.
- Let the lasagne rest after baking to allow layers to set and make cutting easier.
- For a crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking if you want extra golden cheese.
- Make ahead tip: This lasagne can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat beautifully in the oven.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
