Classic Lasagna Recipe

Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, loved for its rich layers of flavor and hearty appeal. This classic recipe brings together a robust meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and melted mozzarella to create a dish that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will help you create a lasagna that's as delicious as it is satisfying. Get ready to impress your guests with a dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic lasagna recipe is more than just a hearty meal; it's a dish that brings people together. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or preparing a meal for the week, this recipe checks all the boxes.

1. Simple, Accessible Ingredients
You don’t need a gourmet pantry to make this lasagna. Most of the ingredients, like ground beef, ricotta, and mozzarella, are easy to find at any grocery store.

2. Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
Lasagna is a dish that appeals to all ages. The rich layers of meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender noodles create a comforting meal that everyone loves.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion
This recipe works equally well for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Its versatile flavor profile makes it suitable for casual meals or formal events.

4. Make It Your Own
While this recipe is a classic, it’s also flexible. Add your favorite vegetables, substitute ground turkey, or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

With this lasagna recipe, you’ll have a reliable, delicious meal that’s guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients Breakdown

Creating the perfect lasagna starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need for this classic recipe, broken into three essential parts:

For the Meat Sauce

    • Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing and adding depth of flavor.

    • Onion (½ large, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and balance to the sauce.

    • Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the savory profile.

    • Ground beef (1 pound): Provides hearty, rich texture.

    • Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 14 ounces): Forms the base of the sauce.

    • Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the tomato flavor.

    • Tomato sauce (½ can, 7.5 ounces): Adds smooth consistency.

    • Sugar (½ teaspoon): Balances acidity.

    • Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon): A blend of herbs for authentic flavor.

    • Fennel seeds (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle, sweet note.

    • Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): For a mild kick of heat.

    • Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.

For the Ricotta Mixture

    • Ricotta cheese (7.5 ounces): Creamy and mild, it adds richness to the layers.

    • Egg (½ large egg): Helps bind the ricotta mixture.

    • Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated): Adds salty, nutty flavor.

    • Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Brightens the mixture (substitute dried parsley if needed).

    • Salt and pepper: For a balanced taste.

Other Ingredients

    • Lasagna noodles (6 pieces): The foundation of your lasagna layers.

    • Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melts beautifully for a gooey topping.

    • Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated): For sprinkling on top before baking.

Optional Ingredient Substitutions

    • Use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a different flavor.

    • Replace ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option.

    • Choose gluten-free lasagna noodles to make the dish gluten-friendly.

With these ingredients, you’ll have everything you need to create a flavorful, crowd-pleasing lasagna.

Pro Tips for Success

Creating the perfect lasagna is all about the details. Follow these tips to ensure your dish is a hit every time:

1. Choose High-Quality Ingredients

    • Use fresh onions, garlic, and herbs for a more flavorful sauce.

    • Select premium crushed tomatoes for a richer base.

2. Prevent Sticking with Cooking Spray

    • Spray the underside of the foil lightly with cooking spray before covering the dish. This prevents the cheese from sticking during baking.

3. Cook Noodles Just Right

    • Boil the noodles until they’re al dente. Overcooking them can cause them to break during assembly.

4. Allow Resting Time

    • Once baked, let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut clean slices.

5. Customize the Recipe

    • Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

    • Substitute ground turkey or sausage for a twist on the classic flavor.

6. Use a Baking Dish That Fits

    • An 8x8-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe. A smaller or larger dish will affect the layers and cooking time.

7. Freeze for Later

    • Assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll elevate your lasagna from good to unforgettable. Enjoy the compliments from family and friends!

Classic Lasagna Recipe

Discover the ultimate classic lasagna recipe with rich layers of noodles, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this easy-to-follow recipe brings the comfort of homemade cooking to your table. Simple ingredients, step-by-step guidance, and mouthwatering results await.

 

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 large onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 can (14 ounces crushed tomatoes)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1/2 can (7.5 ounces tomato sauce)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Ricotta Mixture:

  • 7.5 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 large egg (beat one large egg and use half)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2 tablespoon dried parsley)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Other Ingredients:

  • 6 lasagna noodles
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Prepare the Meat Sauce:

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-safe dish or skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add 1/2 large onion, finely chopped, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 more minute.
  3. Add 1 pound ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  4. Stir in 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, and 1/2 can (7.5 ounces) tomato sauce.
  5. Add 1/2 teaspoon sugar, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. For stovetop simmering: Simmer over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. For oven simmering: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with a lid or foil and transfer to the oven. Simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine 7.5 ounces ricotta cheese, 1/2 large egg, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2 tablespoon dried parsley), and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside.

Cook the Lasagna Noodles:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 6 lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Lay flat on a clean surface.

Assemble the Lasagna:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread a thin layer of the prepared meat sauce on the bottom of an 8x8-inch baking dish.

  3. Arrange a layer of 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.

  4. Spread 1/2 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by 1/2 of the meat sauce and 1/2 of the shredded mozzarella cheese.

  5. Arrange a layer of 3 lasagna noodles.

  6. Spread remaining ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by the meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.

  7. Sprinkle 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake the Lasagna:

  1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (spray the underside with cooking spray to prevent sticking).
  2. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  3. Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Make the sauce a day ahead for better flavor. To reheat, place the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat and gently warm, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Main Course
American, Italian
cheese, ground beef, pasta

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