Soulful Southern Lasagne

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the traditional Italian lasagne with the soulful flavors of Southern cuisine. We incorporate ingredients commonly found in soul food, such as collard greens and smoked meats, to add depth and a unique twist to the dish. The use of Southern spices and seasonings further enhances the flavor profile, making it a true soul food delight. We alse have the original recipe for Lasagne, so you can check it out.

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 pound (450g) smoked sausage, sliced 1 pound (450g) smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 ounces/400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (14 ounces/400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 ounces/170g) tomato paste 1 can (6 ounces/170g) tomato paste
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon (15ml) Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) smoked paprika 1 teaspoon (5ml) smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried thyme 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried oregano 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 lasagne noodles, cooked according to package instructions 12 lasagne noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 2 cups (470ml) shredded cheddar cheese 2 cups (470ml) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups (470ml) shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cups (470ml) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup (240ml) cooked collard greens, chopped 1 cup (240ml) cooked collard greens, chopped

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat: 25g (12g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 28g (6g sugars)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 2.
   In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and smoked sausage over medium heat until cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
3. 3.
   Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
4. 4.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
6. 6.
   Place a layer of cooked lasagne noodles on top of the sauce.
7. 7.
   Spread a layer of the meat sauce over the noodles, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
8. 8.
   Repeat the layers, alternating between noodles, meat sauce, and cheese, until all the ingredients are used.
9. 9.
   Top the lasagne with the cooked collard greens.
10. 10.
    Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
11. 11.
    Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. 12.
    Allow the lasagne to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• Smoked sausage — Opt for a low-sodium or turkey sausage for a lighter version.
• Collard greens — Remove the tough stems before chopping and cook until tender.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
• Make the lasagne ahead of time and refrigerate overnight for the flavors to meld together even more.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for added flavor variations.
• Serve the lasagne with a side of cornbread for a complete soul food experience.
• Leftover lasagne can be frozen and reheated for future meals.

Serving advice

Serve the Soulful Southern Lasagne hot, straight from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before cutting into portions to ensure clean slices. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color.

Presentation advice

Present the Soulful Southern Lasagne on a large serving platter or individual plates. The layers of meat, cheese, and collard greens should be visible, showcasing the deliciousness within. Pair it with a side of cornbread and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for an appetizing presentation.