Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot), casings removed
• 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Assembling the Lasagna:

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

For the Filling:

1. Cook the Sausage:

   • In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until it's browned and cooked through. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Remove any excess fat from the pan.

2. Sauté Mushrooms and Aromatics:

   • Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are browned and have released their moisture. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

3. Season and Add Tomatoes:

   • Season the sausage and mushroom mixture with dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and simmer the sauce for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

For the Cheese Mixture:

1. Mix Ingredients:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, fresh basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

For Assembling the Lasagna:

1. Preheat the Oven:

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

2. Layer the Lasagna:

   • In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a small amount of the sausage and mushroom sauce to prevent sticking. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on the sauce.
   • Spread a portion of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
   • Add another layer of lasagna noodles, the remaining sausage and mushroom sauce, and another layer of mozzarella cheese.
   • Finish with a final layer of lasagna noodles, the remaining cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese.

3. Bake:

   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the lasagna is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is golden brown.

4. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish the Sausage, Mushroom, and Ricotta Cheese Lasagna with fresh basil leaves if desired. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

This lasagna is a delightful combination of rich and savory flavors, making it a perfect dish for a family dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the layers of sausage, mushrooms, and creamy ricotta cheese in every bite!