Here’s a classic Lasagna Recipe that’s full of rich flavors, with layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese. This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep for the week!
Classic Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
- Extra shredded mozzarella for topping
Instructions:
- Prepare the Noodles:
If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, skip this step and move to the next. - Make the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
Let the sauce simmer over low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. - Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce (or no-boil noodles).
Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a generous layer of meat sauce.
Repeat the layering process (noodles, ricotta, meat sauce) until you run out of ingredients, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
Sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella on top for a cheesy finish. - Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. - Serve:
Garnish with additional parsley if desired and serve hot with a side salad and garlic bread.
Tips:
- Make-Ahead: Lasagna can be made a day in advance. Assemble the lasagna, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from the fridge.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground meat for sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a vegetarian lasagna.
- Freezer-Friendly: Lasagna freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then freeze in slices or as a whole. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
This classic lasagna recipe is a family favorite, with layers of rich, savory goodness that everyone will love. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special dinner, this lasagna will satisfy your hunger and warm your heart!