Ricotta Mixture

• 30 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 Tbsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1 Tbsp minced fresh basil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• pinch ground nutmeg (optional but recommended)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cheeses and Noodles

• 16 oz shredded whole milk Mozzarella cheese (part skim will work as well)
• 1 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 12 oz box dried oven-ready wavy lasagna noodles

Bolognese Sauce

• 1 batch bolognese sauce (see instructions or use 5-6 cups store-bought)

Garnish

• additional minced fresh basil
• minced fresh parsley

Quick Meat Sauce Ingredients (Optional)

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage (hot or mild)
• 1 medium yellow onion, minced
• 7 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (or substitute with beef broth)
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2/3 cup beef broth (reduced sodium preferred)
• 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 Tbsp dried parsley (optional)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (optional)