Making the “Christmas Eve Lasagna Lover” is a labor of love, but the process is as enjoyable as the result. Here’s how to bring it to life:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Remove excess fat.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onions are translucent.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the egg until smooth.
7. To assemble, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a third of the ricotta mixture, a third of the mozzarella, and a third of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
10. Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

As you layer the ingredients, remember that each step is a chance to infuse the dish with your love and care. I often hum to myself while assembling the lasagna, a little tradition that always reminds me of my mother in the kitchen.