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.

Meat Sauce:

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

For the Ricotta Mixture:

• 7.5 oz ricotta cheese
• 1/2 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2 tbsp 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)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce (Stovetop):

   • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe dish or skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
   • Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 8 minutes, and drain any excess fat.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, Italian seasoning, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Simmer over low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce (Oven):

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Follow steps in instruction 1 for sautéing onion, garlic, and browning the beef.
   • Stir in the remaining sauce ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Cover the dish with a lid or foil and transfer to the oven. Simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway through.

3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:

   • In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside.

4. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:

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

5. Assemble the Lasagna:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spread a thin layer of the prepared meat sauce on the bottom of the 8x8-inch baking dish.
   • Arrange a layer of 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
   • Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the meat sauce and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
   • Arrange the remaining 3 lasagna noodles in a layer.
   • Spread the remaining ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by the rest of the meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
   • Sprinkle the 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese on top.

6. Bake the Lasagna:

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

Notes: Making the sauce a day ahead can enhance the flavor. Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much.