Lasagne For Heath - cooking recipe

Ingredients

8 oz. (9 to 12 strips) lasagne noodles
1 lb. lean ground beef (and Italian sausage, if desired)
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, pressed
2 cans tomatoes, pureed or 7 c. diced garden fresh tomatoes
1 can tomato paste
pinch of sugar
oregano, basil, salt, pepper and bay leaves to taste
chopped bell pepper and mushrooms (optional)
16 oz. Ricotta cheese
1 c. grated Parmesan cheese
12 to 16 oz. sliced or shredded Mozzarella cheese
1 slightly beaten egg (optional)

Preparation

Heat olive oil in Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add meat, onion and garlic.
Cook and stir until meat is browned.
Remove excess fat. Add tomato products, sugar, spices and vegetables. Cook on medium heat until sauce begins to bubble. Reduce heat and simmer 1 to 2 hours. Cook lasagne noodles al dente (about 7 minutes).