Meat Lasagna with Ricotta
Meat Lasagna with Ricotta is a classic Italian-American comfort food layered with sheets of pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella. It typically features ground beef or sausage simmered in a tomato-based marinara, blended with herbs like basil and oregano, and baked until bubbly. This hearty dish has roots in Italian cuisine but has become a staple in American households, often served at family gatherings and celebrations.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in both fat and protein due to the meat and cheese layers, while the pasta contributes significant carbohydrates. A typical serving provides a good source of calcium and iron, with a calorie count ranging from 600 to 800 calories per generous portion.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 370 kcal |
| Protein | 21 g |
| Carbs | 32 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Calcium | 300 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Vitamin A | 250 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.5 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Zinc | 3 mg |
Per 1 piece (approx. 240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, lasagna is a symbol of communal dining in Italy, often prepared for holidays like Christmas and Easter, while in the U.S., it's a beloved comfort food that bridges traditional and modern cooking styles. Nutritionally, the combination of protein from meat and calcium from ricotta makes it a filling meal, though its richness often leads to it being enjoyed as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily dish.
