To prevent lasagna from becoming dry while baking, here are some tips you can follow:
Use enough sauce: Make sure to include enough sauce in your lasagna recipe. The sauce helps keep the dish moist and adds flavor. Be generous with the sauce layers between the noodles and other ingredients.
Precook the noodles properly: If you're using regular lasagna noodles (not the no-boil type), cook them until they are al dente, as they will continue to absorb moisture during baking. Undercooking the noodles slightly prevents them from becoming too soft and mushy.
Add moisture-rich ingredients: Incorporate ingredients with high moisture content, such as ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and vegetables like spinach or zucchini. These ingredients release moisture during baking, which helps keep the lasagna moist.
Layer properly: Layer the ingredients strategically to trap moisture. Start with a layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish, followed by a layer of noodles. Spread a layer of sauce over the noodles, followed by cheese and other fillings. Repeat the layers, finishing with a top layer of sauce and cheese.
Cover with foil: Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil during the initial baking process to trap moisture and prevent the top from drying out too quickly. Remove the foil during the final few minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown and create a delicious crust.
Don't overbake: Avoid overcooking the lasagna, as it can lead to dryness. Follow the recommended baking time in your recipe and check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center. If it comes out hot and the lasagna is bubbling around the edges, it's usually ready.
Let it rest: Once the lasagna is out of the oven, allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to cut into neat portions. Resting also allows any excess moisture to redistribute throughout the dish.
By following these tips, you should be able to enjoy a moist and delicious lasagna straight from the oven.