Classic Homemade Lasagna Recipe

Lasagna is a traditional Italian comfort dish made by layering pasta with rich meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and bubbling melted cheese on top. It’s a favorite for family dinners, celebrations, or cozy weekend meals, offering layers of flavor and hearty satisfaction in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a timeless, crowd-pleasing classic.
• Great for feeding a family or a group.
• Can be made ahead and reheated beautifully.
• Perfectly layered with a balance of meat, cheese, and pasta.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)
• Ground beef
• Italian sausage (optional, or use all beef)
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Crushed tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Tomato sauce
• Sugar
• Dried basil
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Pepper
• Ricotta cheese
• Egg
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Fresh parsley (optional, chopped for garnish)

Directions

this recipe

1. Make the meat sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, cook chopped onions and garlic in a bit of oil. Add ground beef and sausage, breaking it apart and browning it. Drain excess fat. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, and seasonings. Let simmer for 30–45 minutes.
2. Cook noodles: If using traditional noodles, boil them until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare cheese filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with an egg, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
4. Layer the lasagna: In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by noodles, ricotta mixture, and shredded mozzarella. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of meat sauce and mozzarella on top.
5. Bake: Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Rest and serve: Let lasagna sit for 10–15 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Rest time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Use all beef or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version.
• Add spinach or zucchini slices for extra veggies.
• Swap ricotta for cottage cheese if preferred.
• Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper to the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze baked or unbaked lasagna. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

How do I keep lasagna from being watery?

Drain meat well and let the sauce simmer until thick. Also, don’t overdo the ricotta mixture.

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

Can I freeze lasagna?

Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen or thaw overnight first.

Should I cook the noodles before assembling?

If using oven-ready noodles, no need. For regular noodles, boil until al dente before layering.

What can I use instead of ricotta?

Cottage cheese is a common substitute and adds a similar texture and taste.

How long should lasagna rest before serving?

Let it rest 10–15 minutes after baking to set the layers and make slicing easier.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or a plant-based meat alternative.

What kind of cheese is best for lasagna?

A mix of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta creates the best flavor and texture.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The cheese on top should be melted and golden brown, and the sauce should be bubbling around the edges.

Can I use store-bought sauce?

Yes, a good-quality marinara or pasta sauce can save time. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Conclusion

Classic lasagna is a heartwarming, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layered richness and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Whether made traditionally or customized to your taste, this lasagna never fails to satisfy.

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