Classic Lasagna Recipe
Classic Lasagna Recipe is a timeless dish loved by families around the world.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage optional
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional, to reduce acidity
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Other Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles cooked al dente
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Prepare Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef, sausage and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add Garlic & Seasonings
- Stir in minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, pepper and tomato paste. Cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes
- Pour crushed tomatoes into the skillet. Stir well. Simmer on low heat for 20 minutes to blend flavors.
Mix Cheese Filling
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, salt, pepper and parsley. Mix until creamy and smooth. Set aside.
Cook Noodles
- Boil lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
Layer Ingredients
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish. Place 3 noodles over the sauce.
Add Cheese Layer
- Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over noodles. Sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella. Repeat layering two more times.
Top with Cheese
- Spread remaining meat sauce on top. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly.
Cover & Bake
- Cover dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake 20–25 minutes more until cheese is bubbly.
Let Rest
- Remove lasagna from oven. Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing. This ensures clean slices and full flavor.
Serve & Enjoy
- Cut lasagna into squares and serve warm. Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Notes
- Use no-boil noodles to save time, adjusting sauce slightly to prevent dryness.
- Substitute half of the beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Use a combination of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a richer flavor.
- Make ahead: Assemble lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
- Freeze leftovers in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat covered in the oven.