Dirty Bastard Lasagna: My Grandmother’s Classic Recipe

One of the dishes that always brings back fond memories of family gatherings is my grandmother's classic Lasagna. While some might consider it a whimsical or even "dirty bastard" version, it is anything but a simple recipe.

The Flavor Profile of a Classic Lasagna

I understand the transformative power of umami in a dish, especially in a hearty lasagna. Let's break down the key ingredients that make this lasagna so delicious:

Tomato Sauce: A homemade base that lays the foundation for the lasagna's flavor. Cheese Filling: Full-fat cottage cheese combined with eggs, flour, and other cheeses. The full-fat varieties provide a richer taste. Top Topping: A combination of Parmesan, Jack, and Cheddar cheeses, with an optional layer of Panko bread crumbs.

Why This Lasagna is a Calorie Bomb

While I would relish the opportunity to indulge in this lasagna daily, it is indeed a calorie bomb. However, this delectable dish is a must-try once a month. Let's dive into the recipe and learn how to achieve its exceptional taste.

Ingredients and Preparing the Meat

The meat portion is crucial. I use a blend of 1 lb of ground low-fat beef and 1 lb of mild Italian sausage, as only the latter is truly Italian. To achieve a well-balanced flavor, sauté the meat in a zig-zag pattern using a classic potato masher to break it into small bits.

Key Steps:

saute until browned. add chopped onions and a small can of tomato paste. Stir until everything is browned. do not drain the fat; it adds flavor to the dish.

Red Sauce: Use two giant cans of San Marzano tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic. Saute until blended together. Add 1 tablespoon of concentrated chicken base and 1/4 teaspoon of MSG to enhance the umami taste. The sauce should be simmered for around 30 minutes to achieve a perfect balance of flavors.

Red Pepper Flakes: While not traditionally Italian, I believe they add a delightful kick to the dish, so don't hesitate to add them.

Assembling the Lasagna

For the cheese filling, use a 24oz tub of full-fat cottage cheese, 1 cup of freshly shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano, and 16oz of high-quality Monterey Jack cheese. Add two whole eggs and 1/4 cup of flour for binding. Whirl this mixture in a food processor or use a sieve to combine the ingredients thoroughly.

Noodles: Soak fresh lasagna noodles in the hottest tap water for 10 minutes. Add a cup of boiling water to ensure the noodles are scalded. Separate the noodles and lay them in the pan. Layer the noodles with the meat sauce, cheese filling, and additional Parmesan, Jack, and Cheddar cheeses. Finish by topping with a final layer of the cheese mixture, Parmesan, and Cheddar combined.

Bake the lasagna at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about an hour, covered. Uncover and increase the temperature to 400 degrees to achieve the perfect crispy Maillard reactions that enhance the flavor and texture.

Conclusion

When it comes to soups and stews, you can sometimes get away with using lower-grade ingredients. However, for a dish that demands sophisticated balance and depth, high-quality ingredients are essential. This Dirty Bastard lasagna is a testament to that principle. Use the best ingredients you can get, and you'll be rewarded with a culinary masterpiece that stands the test of time and family gatherings.