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Homemade Dominican-Style 3 Cheese and Beef Lasagna photo

Dominican-Style 3 Cheese and Beef Lasagna

This Dominican-Style Lasagna is a flavor-packed twist on a classic! Enjoy layers of beef, three cheeses, and spices in every bite.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Dominican, Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs minced beef
  • 1 small red onion minced
  • 1 each red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 teaspoon oregano dry leaves
  • 1 teaspoon pepper freshly-cracked or ground
  • 1 tablespoon salt or more, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • ½ cup water
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 10 large tomatoes diced
  • 2 tablespoons salt or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon pepper freshly-cracked or ground
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking tomatoes and garlic
  • 1 tablespoon mashed garlic
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil for layering or drizzling
  • 9 each lasagna noodles
  • 1 pound shredded mozzarella
  • 1 pound cremita cheese
  • 1 cup shredded parmesan

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Oven
  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the minced onion and chopped red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent.
  2. Add the minced beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  3. Stir in the oregano, freshly cracked pepper, and salt. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, crumbled cremita cheese, and half of the shredded parmesan. Set aside.
  5. While the sauce is simmering, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a third of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by another layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layering process two more times, finishing with a layer of noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce and sprinkled with the rest of the parmesan cheese.
  7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Once out of the oven, let the lasagna cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers set and make for easier serving.

Notes

  • Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • For a crispier top, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
  • Assemble the lasagna and freeze it before baking for a make-ahead option.