Classic Homemade Lasagna Recipe for Cozy Family Dinners
Few dishes can match the comforting, hearty goodness of a classic homemade lasagna. Layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese come together in perfect harmony to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. It’s a true crowd-pleaser!
My family always looks forward to lasagna night. It’s a labor of love, but the results are so worth it. Plus, it’s even better as leftovers—if there’s any left, that is!
Why This Lasagna Is the Best
This recipe combines a flavorful homemade meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese filling, and perfectly baked pasta for a lasagna that’s rich, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s easy to make ahead and perfect for feeding a crowd!
Your Grocery List
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Tips for Perfect Lasagna
Follow these tips to ensure your lasagna turns out perfectly every time:
- Cook Noodles Al Dente: Slightly undercooked noodles will continue to soften as the lasagna bakes.
- Layer Evenly: Spread each layer evenly for a balanced bite every time. Start with a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Let It Rest: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to make slicing easier and prevent it from falling apart.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Lasagna is the perfect make-ahead dish, and leftovers taste even better the next day:
- Storage: Cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, for 20-25 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Make It Even Better
Here are a few ways to customize your lasagna to make it your own:
- Go Veggie: Swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Lovers: Add layers of provolone or a sprinkle of pecorino Romano for an extra cheesy lasagna.
- Add Spice: Use hot Italian sausage or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
Fun Facts
Did you know lasagna dates back to ancient Rome? The name comes from the Greek word “laganon,” which referred to flat sheets of pasta. It’s been a beloved dish for centuries!
Pairings
Serve lasagna with a crisp Caesar salad and warm garlic bread. For dessert, a slice of tiramisu or a scoop of gelato will perfectly round out the meal.
Classic Homemade Lasagna
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large pot
- 9x13 casserole dish
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage
- 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13 casserole dish.
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, diced onion, and minced garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Mix until smooth.
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the casserole dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of meat sauce, and then a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of meat sauce and mozzarella.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
