Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Lasagna is a hearty, comforting classic that layers rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel or ricotta, and tender pasta sheets, all topped with bubbling melted cheese. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Each bite delivers a perfect blend of savory, creamy, and cheesy flavors.

ingredients

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

lasagna noodlesground beef or Italian sausagespaghetti or marinara saucetomato pastegarliconionolive oilricotta cheesemozzarella cheeseparmesan cheeseeggsaltblack pepperItalian seasoningfresh basil (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Boil the lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Stir in tomato paste, marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.

In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, a pinch of salt, and some grated parmesan.

To assemble, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

Add a layer of noodles, then a layer of the ricotta mixture, followed by shredded mozzarella.

Repeat the layers, ending with sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and parmesan.

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

Let rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8-10.Preparation time: 30 minutesCooking time: 45-50 minutesResting time: 15 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Use a béchamel sauce instead of ricotta for a creamier texture.

Add chopped spinach or mushrooms to the cheese layer for extra flavor and nutrients.

Substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version.

Use oven-ready noodles to save time on boiling.

Try spicy Italian sausage for a kick of heat.

storage/reheating

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual slices for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I freeze unbaked lasagna?

Absolutely, just cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 20-30 minutes to cooking time.

What can I use instead of ricotta?

Cottage cheese or a béchamel sauce are good alternatives.

Why is my lasagna watery?

Drain the meat well, and avoid too much sauce. Let the lasagna rest after baking to help it set.

Do I need to cover it while baking?

Yes, covering it prevents the top from burning. Remove the foil during the last 20 minutes to brown the cheese.

Can I use no-boil noodles?

Yes, just make sure your sauce is slightly thinner to help cook the noodles properly.

How many layers should lasagna have?

Typically 3 to 4 layers are ideal for structure and flavor balance.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions.

How do I keep the cheese from burning?

Cover with foil and only uncover during the last portion of baking.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the meat and use a vegetable-rich sauce or meat substitute.

Conclusion

Homemade Lasagna is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction with every slice. With rich layers of sauce, cheese, and pasta, it’s a perfect make-ahead meal for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Customize it to your taste and enjoy a dish that never goes out of style.