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Simmering your marinara sauce is a crucial step in the Cheesy Lasagna Dip recipe that should never be overlooked. This process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and robust sauce that will elevate your dip to a whole new level. When you simmer the sauce, you're not just heating it; you're allowing the acidity of the tomatoes to soften, the sweetness to emerge, and the herbs to infuse their character throughout the mixture.

Lasagna Dip

Indulge in the deliciousness of Cheesy Lasagna Dip, a flavorful twist on your favorite Italian classic! This creamy and savory dip is perfect for gatherings, featuring layers of savory ground meat, tangy marinara sauce, and a blend of rich cheeses, all baked to perfection. Ideal for game days or casual get-togethers, this dish will leave everyone wanting more. Click through to explore the full recipe and tips for serving this irresistible treat!

Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

1 packet of tortilla chips or sliced baguette for dipping

Instructions
 

In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes).

    Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.

      Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

        In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.

          Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

            In a baking dish, spread the meat sauce evenly on the bottom. Dollop the ricotta cheese mixture over the meat sauce and gently spread it out with a spatula.

              Top the ricotta layer with the remaining meat sauce, followed by the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

                Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden.

                  Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

                    Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor and color.

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve the Lasagna Dip in the baking dish it was cooked in. Accompany with a basket of tortilla chips or sliced baguette for dipping, and place some fresh basil sprigs on top for a pop of color.