Classic Homemade Lasagna

A rich and hearty lasagna layered with a savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and a golden, bubbly mozzarella topping — this dish brings the ultimate comfort to your table. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or when you simply crave a satisfying Italian-inspired meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic homemade lasagna is a timeless favorite because it combines simple ingredients into a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent. The layers of tender pasta, flavorful meat sauce, and creamy cheeses create a balanced, hearty meal. It is also easy to prepare in advance and ideal for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

9 lasagna noodles
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz marinara sauce
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, and parsley. Mix until well blended.
6. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer 3 noodles over the sauce. Top with 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, 1/3 of the meat sauce, and 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat layers twice more, finishing with mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
9. Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 8 servings.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Calories: approximately 480 kcal per serving

Variations

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef or sausage for a lighter version.
• Add a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
• Use a mix of cheeses, such as provolone or fontina, for added flavor.
• Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding layers of roasted vegetables.
• Try a spicy version by using hot Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Storage/reheating

Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing.
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
For freezing, wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep my lasagna from being watery?

Ensure you drain excess fat from the meat and let the lasagna rest after baking so the layers can set.

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Can I freeze lasagna before baking?

Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna, cover tightly, and freeze. Thaw overnight before baking as directed.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute cottage cheese or a mixture of cottage cheese and cream cheese.

How do I know when lasagna is done baking?

The cheese should be melted and golden, and the sauce should be bubbling around the edges.

Can I use no-boil noodles for this recipe?

Yes, no-boil noodles work well, though you may need to adjust the sauce quantity to ensure sufficient moisture.

What is the best way to cut lasagna neatly?

Let it rest for at least 10 minutes after baking so it firms up, making slicing easier.

Can I make this lasagna gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles.

How do I add more vegetables to this dish?

Layer in spinach, zucchini slices, or bell peppers between the noodles and sauce layers.

Is it necessary to cover lasagna with foil when baking?

Covering prevents the cheese from over-browning before the inside is heated through. Remove the foil toward the end for a golden top.

Conclusion

Classic homemade lasagna is a beloved dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its rich layers and versatile options for customization, it is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether served at a family dinner or saved for leftovers, this lasagna delivers delicious results every time.

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