For decades, the Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen has been a haven for food enthusiasts, constantly churning out recipes that become timeless classics. Among these treasures is a lasagna recipe that has earned its place as a go - to choice for countless home cooks. Let's delve into the magic of this long - standing favorite.

Lasagna is a dish that combines layers of pasta, rich sauce, and creamy cheese, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. The foundation of this particular lasagna starts with high - quality lasagna noodles. It's essential to cook them just right, al dente, so they hold their shape and texture within the dish. Overcooked noodles can turn mushy, while undercooked ones can be tough and unappetizing.

The sauce is the heart and soul of the lasagna. The Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen's recipe calls for a savory meat sauce. Ground beef is a popular choice, but you can also use a combination of beef and pork for added depth of flavor. The meat is browned in a large skillet until it's crumbly and cooked through. Onions and garlic are sautéed until fragrant, adding a sweet and pungent note to the sauce. A generous amount of tomato sauce, along with some tomato paste, is then added to the skillet. The sauce is seasoned with a blend of herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme, which give it that classic Italian flavor. A touch of salt and pepper helps to balance the taste.

Next comes the cheese layer. Ricotta cheese is a key component, adding a creamy and slightly tangy element. It's mixed with a bit of parmesan cheese and some fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. The ricotta mixture is not only delicious but also helps to bind the layers of the lasagna together. Mozzarella cheese is another star of the show. Shredded mozzarella is sprinkled generously over the layers, creating a gooey, melty topping when baked.

Assembling the lasagna is a process that requires patience and precision. Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Then, place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Follow this with a layer of the ricotta mixture, spreading it evenly over the noodles. Add another layer of meat sauce, and then sprinkle with some mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a thick layer of mozzarella on top.

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake it in a preheated oven. The foil helps to trap the moisture and steam, ensuring that the lasagna cooks evenly. After a certain amount of time, the foil is removed, and the lasagna is baked for a bit longer to allow the cheese on top to turn golden brown and bubbly. The aroma that fills the kitchen during this process is simply irresistible.

Once the lasagna is baked to perfection, it's important to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the lasagna to set, making it easier to cut into neat slices. Serve it hot, perhaps with a side salad or some garlic bread. The combination of the warm, cheesy lasagna and the fresh, crisp salad is a match made in heaven.

This lasagna recipe from the Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen is not just a meal; it's a tradition. It has been passed down through generations, bringing families and friends together around the dinner table. It's a dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes, whether you want to add more vegetables, use a different type of meat, or experiment with the cheese. No matter how you tweak it, the essence of this decades - old favorite remains the same - a delicious, comforting meal that never fails to satisfy.