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Introduction
BBQ Chili Cheese Lasagna is a delightful fusion comfort dish that brings together the robust flavors of chili with the creamy, cheesy layers of traditional lasagna, all enhanced by a smoky BBQ twist. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a hearty and flavorful meal with a touch of spice, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
250g lasagna noodles
500g ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped (150g)
2 cloves garlic, minced
400g canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
400g canned diced tomatoes
150g BBQ sauce
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
300g ricotta cheese
250g shredded mozzarella cheese
100g shredded cheddar cheese
500g tomato sauce
25 ml olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Cook Lasagna Noodles
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain them thoroughly and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, heat 25 ml of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is softened.
Step 4: Brown the Beef
Add 500g of ground beef to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, then drain any excess fat.
Step 5: Add Flavorings
Stir in 2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 400g canned diced tomatoes, 400g canned kidney beans (drained and rinsed), and 150g BBQ sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes until it is slightly thickened.
Step 6: Prepare Ricotta Mixture
In a separate bowl, mix 300g ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Step 7: Assemble the Lasagna
Spread a thin layer of 500g tomato sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch (22×33 cm) baking dish.
Step 8: Layer Ingredients
Layer with some of the cooked lasagna noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, half of the meat mixture, and a third of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese mixture.
Step 9: Repeat Layers
Repeat the layering process, ending with a final layer of noodles. Top this layer with the remaining tomato sauce and the remaining shredded cheeses.
Step 10: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 11: Cool and Garnish
Allow the lasagna to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Cooking Time
The total cook time for this recipe is approximately 55 minutes, including both preparation and baking time.
Serving Size
This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it suitable for family dinners or meal prepping.
Storage Suggestions
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Allow the BBQ Chili Cheese Lasagna to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, the lasagna can be frozen. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, then with aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in the oven until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
This lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. You can also serve it with garlic bread or cornbread to complement the hearty flavors. For an added kick, offer extra BBQ sauce or hot sauce on the side.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 550
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Dietary Fiber: 7g
– Sugars: 6g
– Total Fat: 30g
– Saturated Fat: 15g
– Sodium: 800mg
Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.
– BBQ Sauce: Use homemade BBQ sauce or any sweet and tangy sauce if preferred.
– Ricotta Cheese: Cottage cheese or cream cheese can work as an alternative.
– Cheeses: Feel free to mix and match cheeses; Gouda or Monterey Jack can be excellent substitutes for mozzarella and cheddar.
– Kidney Beans: Black beans or pinto beans can be used if you prefer a different flavor.
– Canned Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes or tomato puree can be used in place of canned diced tomatoes.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a technique that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over medium to high heat. This method is used to soften the onion and garlic before adding the ground beef and additional ingredients.
Simmering
Simmering is cooking food gently in liquid just below the boiling point. This technique is applied to thicken the chili mixture with the canned tomatoes and BBQ sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Layering
Layering is crucial when assembling lasagna. It involves placing sheets of noodles, cheese mixtures, and meat mixtures in a specific order to create a balanced and flavorful dish.
Baking
Baking is the process of cooking food in an oven. In this recipe, the lasagna is covered with foil and baked to allow the layers to cook evenly and the cheese to melt and bubble.
Garnishing
Garnishing is adding a finishing touch to a dish before serving. In this lasagna, chopped parsley is used to enhance presentation and add a fresh flavor contrast.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought BBQ sauce for convenience. Just choose a flavor you enjoy.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add extra chili powder or incorporate fresh chopped jalapeños or hot sauce into the meat mixture.
Can I prepare this lasagna in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
What type of cheese can I use instead of ricotta?
You can use cottage cheese or even cream cheese as an alternative to ricotta cheese for a different texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This BBQ Chili Cheese Lasagna is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna that incorporates the bold flavors of chili and BBQ. Its rich layers of cheese and hearty ingredients create a satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings or a cozy evening at home. Whether you’re a fan of classic lasagna or looking to experiment with new flavors, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
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