There’s nothing quite like the smell of a classic lasagna baking in your oven—rich tomato sauce bubbling around the edges, layers of tender pasta soaking up flavor, and melted cheese stretching with every slice. As you pull it out, the aroma alone makes the kitchen feel warm and welcoming. This is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, the kind you make when you want comfort, nostalgia, and bold Italian-inspired flavor all in one bite. And the best part? You’re about to make it from scratch, and it’s easier than you think.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’re going to fall in love with this classic lasagna recipe because:
- It’s deeply flavorful, with a slow-simmered meat sauce and creamy cheese layers
- The texture is perfect—tender pasta, rich sauce, and gooey melted cheese
- It’s a family favorite that works for weeknights, Sundays, or special occasions
- You can prep it ahead, making dinner stress-free
- It tastes even better the next day, making leftovers a dream
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to build those irresistible layers of flavor:
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or beef and Italian sausage mix)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Cheese Layer
- 15 oz (425 g) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Assembly
- 9–12 lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)
- Extra mozzarella and Parmesan for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and fragrant. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until aromatic. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 20–30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the richer and deeper the flavor becomes, filling your kitchen with that classic Italian aroma.
Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
If you’re using regular noodles, cook them in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean towel to prevent sticking. Oven-ready noodles can be used directly.
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. This layer adds richness and balances the bold tomato sauce beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a greased baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, then spread ricotta mixture, sprinkle mozzarella, and spoon over more meat sauce. Repeat the layers until everything is used, finishing with sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling. Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing—this helps the layers set perfectly.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine to the meat sauce while simmering
- Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
- Add layers of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra veggies
- Love cheese? Mix a little cream cheese or mascarpone into the ricotta
- Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes
What to Serve With It
Classic lasagna pairs beautifully with simple sides:
- Crisp green salad with Italian dressing
- Warm garlic bread or buttery breadsticks
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
- A glass of sparkling water or your favorite drink to balance the richness
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze fully cooked lasagna (whole or in portions) for up to 3 months
- Reheating: Warm in the oven covered with foil or microwave individual slices until heated through
Nutrition & Calories (Approximate)
| Nutrient (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
Values may vary depending on ingredients and portion size.
Conclusion
This classic lasagna recipe is everything you want in a comfort food meal—rich, hearty, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. Every layer delivers bold flavor, comforting warmth, and that nostalgic taste that never goes out of style. Once you make it, you’ll come back to it again and again, whether for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights at home. One bite, and you’ll understand why this dish has stood the test of time. 🍽️✨
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