Lasagna Recipe

Lasagna recipe is a rich and comforting dish that brings together layers of pasta, cheese, and flavorful meat sauce. In this recipe, you'll learn how to make a classic lasagna that will impress your family and friends with its perfect balance of ingredients. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll master this Italian favorite in no time!

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 1

Total Time 1 20

Course Dinner, Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine Italian, Mediterranean

Servings 8 People

Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowls
9x13 inch baking dish
Aluminum foil
Spatula
Saucepan

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

1 pound ground beef
1 pound Italian sausage
1 onion
4 cloves garlic
2 cans tomato sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 can diced tomatoes
2 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Layer:

16 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated parmesan cheese

For the Pasta:

12 lasagna noodles cooked and drained

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and sausage, breaking them into small pieces as they cook. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Mix the Cheese Layer:In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer 4 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Repeat these layers (sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella) two more times. Finish with the remaining meat sauce and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake the Lasagna:Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Make Ahead:
Lasagna is a great dish to prepare in advance. You can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together for an even tastier result.
Freezing:
If you have leftovers or want to prepare lasagna for future meals, you can freeze it. After assembling the lasagna, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
Vegetarian Option:
You can make a vegetarian version by replacing the meat with vegetables like spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes.
Cheese Variations:
If you want a more indulgent flavor, you can experiment with different types of cheese like provolone, gouda, or gruyère for a twist on the classic lasagna recipe.
Noodle Options:
If you’re short on time, you can use oven-ready lasagna noodles, which don’t require boiling before layering. Just make sure there's enough sauce so that the noodles can absorb moisture and cook properly.
Resting Time:
Always let the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve neatly.
Serving:
Lasagna tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight. If you're planning for leftovers, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Gluten-Free Option:
For those who need a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free lasagna noodles available in many grocery stores or online.