When you take a bite of classic lasagna, you’re met with layers of rich, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella that seem to dance on your taste buds. pair it with cornbread casserole The aroma fills the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace that says, “Welcome home!” This iconic dish is not just food; it’s comfort personified.

Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use no-boil noodles in my classic lasagna recipe?
- What’s the best way to prevent soggy lasagna?
- Can I freeze my classic lasagna?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Every time I whip up this classic lasagna recipe, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter mingled with the scent of garlic and basil. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or festive celebrations, and every forkful promises an explosion of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This classic lasagna recipe offers easy preparation with minimal fuss
- Its bold flavors delight every palate while creating a visually appealing dish perfect for any occasion
- Versatile enough for any season, it’s freezer-friendly and makes meal planning a breeze
I remember the first time I made this classic lasagna recipe for my friends; their eyes lit up as they took their first bites! For more inspiration, check out this classic patty melt recipe recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Lasagna Noodles: Use traditional or no-boil noodles based on your preference; both work well for layering.
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for less grease but don’t skip on flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and smooth, it adds richness to the layers; consider mixing in some herbs for extra flavor. creamy shrimp risotto.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, giving that gooey texture we all love.
- Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty kick and depth; use freshly grated for optimal flavor.
- Tomato Sauce: Choose a high-quality marinara or homemade sauce; it’s the heart of your lasagna.
- Fresh Basil and Oregano: These herbs bring freshness; if using dried herbs, reduce the quantity slightly.
- Garlic and Onion: Sautéing these aromatic ingredients creates a flavorful base for your meat sauce. For more inspiration, check out this roasted garlic potatoes au gratin recipe.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle adds richness when sautéing your aromatics.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather your ingredients on the counter and prepare yourself for some serious culinary magic.
Create the Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Stir in ground beef until browned and crumbly.
Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in your tomato sauce along with fresh basil and oregano. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes to meld those delicious flavors together.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt, pepper, and an egg if desired; this will help bind everything together beautifully.
Layer Your Lasagna: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom. Layer noodles over it followed by half of the ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, then repeat layers until ingredients are exhausted.
Bake Until Golden: Cover with foil and bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly golden perfection appears on top.
Now it’s time to let your masterpiece rest! Allow it to cool slightly before slicing into those cheesy layers.
Serve with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for an unforgettable meal that will have everyone begging for leftovers! Enjoy this classic lasagna recipe with family or friends—no one can resist its charm! grilled chicken burrito bowls.
You Must Know
- Classic lasagna is a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style
- The layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce create an irresistible harmony of flavors
- Don’t rush the process; let it bake slowly for a melty masterpiece that fills your home with delicious aromas
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preparing your meat sauce first, allowing it to simmer while you cook the noodles. This multitasking ensures everything comes together seamlessly for a perfect lasagna.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ricotta for cottage cheese or add spinach for extra nutrition. Personalizing your classic lasagna recipe can elevate it from ordinary to extraordinary.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients, especially cheeses and tomatoes, to enhance flavor
- Always let the lasagna rest before cutting; this keeps layers intact
- Don’t skimp on sauce; it prevents dry layers and adds richness
There’s nothing like hearing friends rave about your classic lasagna recipe at a dinner party, especially when they ask for seconds (or thirds). Their delighted faces make all the cooking worth it!
FAQ
Can I use no-boil noodles in my classic lasagna recipe?
Absolutely! No-boil noodles save time and absorb moisture from the sauce beautifully.
What’s the best way to prevent soggy lasagna?
Make sure to drain excess liquid from your meat sauce before layering.
Can I freeze my classic lasagna?
Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months for future enjoyment.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Classic Lasagna
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in a comforting classic lasagna that layers rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella to create a dish that embodies warmth and satisfaction. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this irresistible recipe guarantees second helpings with every bite. With easy preparation and bold flavors, you’ll find it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles (traditional or no-boil)
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground beef; cook until browned and crumbly.
- Stir in marinara sauce, basil, and oregano. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta with salt, pepper, and an egg if desired.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Layer noodles followed by half of the ricotta mixture and mozzarella cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil; bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg