Let’s get into a comforting and straightforward lasagna recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week.

This classic dish features layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese, all baked to perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples.

• Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready.

• Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping.

• Customizable: Easily adapt to your taste preferences.

Ingredients List

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Additional:

• 9 lasagna noodles

• Extra mozzarella and Parmesan for topping

Preparation Tips

• Noodle Prep: Cook noodles al dente to prevent overcooking during baking.

• Sauce Simmering: Allow the meat sauce to simmer to enhance flavors.

• Cheese Mixture: Mix cheeses thoroughly for a uniform texture.

• Layering: Ensure even layers for consistent baking.

• Resting Time: Let lasagna rest after baking for easier slicing.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

4. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.

5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Simmer sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

3. Drain and lay noodles flat on a sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley.

2. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce.

4. Spread one-third of the cheese mixture over the noodles.

5. Top with a layer of meat sauce.

6. Repeat layers two more times, ending with meat sauce on top.

7. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top layer.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.

2. Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes.

3. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

4. Let lasagna rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Lasagna

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cheeses enhance flavor.

• Don’t Overload Layers: Evenly layer to ensure proper cooking.

• Rest Before Serving: Allow lasagna to sit for cleaner slices.

• Customize Fillings: Add vegetables or different meats as desired.

• Freeze Individual Portions: Easy reheating for quick meals.

How to Best Serve Lasagna

• Pair with Salad: A crisp green salad complements the richness.

• Add Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

• Serve with Wine: A glass of red wine enhances the meal.

• Top with Fresh Herbs: Adds color and freshness.

• Include Roasted Vegetables: Balances the hearty lasagna.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

• Overcooking Noodles: Leads to a mushy texture. Cook until just al dente.

• Skipping Rest Time: Lasagna may fall apart when cut too soon.

• Uneven Layers: Can cause uneven cooking. Spread fillings evenly.

• Insufficient Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning in the sauce.

• Overbaking: Cover with foil to prevent excessive browning.

Best Side Dishes for Lasagna

• Caesar Salad: Classic pairing with creamy dressing.

• Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery, and perfect for dipping.

• Steamed Broccoli: Adds a healthy green element.

• Antipasto Platter: A Variety of flavors to start the meal.

• Minestrone Soup: Hearty and complements the lasagna.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power until warm.

• Avoid Repeated Reheating: It can dry out the lasagna.

FAQs

Q: Can I use no-boil noodles?
A: Yes, adjust the sauce quantity as no-boil noodles absorb more liquid.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Absolutely, replace meat with vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.

Q: How do I prevent watery lasagna?
A: Ensure the sauce is thick and drain any excess liquid from the ingredients.

Q: Can I prepare lasagna ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: What’s the best cheese combination?
A: Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan offer a balanced flavor and texture.

Q: How do I know when it’s done baking?
A: The top should be golden and the sauce bubbling around the edges.

Q: Can I use store-bought sauce?
A: Yes, choose a high-quality marinara or tomato basil sauce.

Conclusion

Making lasagna at home is a rewarding experience that brings comfort and joy right to the table.

With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Give it a try and enjoy the delightful layers of flavor!

You Might Also Want To Try

• Easy Ramen Noodle Recipe
• Chicken Meatballs
• Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

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Continue to Content

Easy Lasagna Recipe

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

This easy lasagna is rich, cheesy, and perfectly layered with a hearty meat sauce and creamy ricotta filling. It’s the kind of comfort food you’ll crave on a cozy night in. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just you—this recipe brings that homemade Italian love right to your table.

Print

Ingredients

• For the Meat Sauce:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Cheese Mixture:
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• Additional:
• 9 lasagna noodles
• Extra mozzarella and Parmesan for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   

Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   
2. Add lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
   
3. Drain and lay noodles flat on a sheet to prevent sticking.
   

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley.
   
2. Mix until well combined.
   

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   
2. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
   
3. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce.
   
4. Spread one-third of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
   
5. Top with a layer of meat sauce.
   
6. Repeat layers two more times, ending with meat sauce on top.
   
7. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top layer.
   

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
   
2. Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes.
   
3. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
   
4. Let lasagna rest for 15 minutes before serving.
   

Notes

No-Boil Noodles: If using oven-ready noodles, no need to pre-cook—just make sure your sauce is a bit saucy (not dry) so the noodles soften while baking.

Meat Alternatives: Swap beef with ground turkey or use sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a vegetarian twist.

Cheese Tip: Use freshly grated mozzarella for the best melty texture.

Make Ahead: Assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Freezer Friendly: Freeze before or after baking. Wrap tightly and it keeps well for up to 2–3 months.

Nutrition Information

Yield 8
Amount Per Serving Calories 450–500

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