Homemade Lasagna recipe
Homemade Lasagna is the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with the warm, comforting smell of bubbling cheese, hearty tomato sauce, and tender pasta layers. It’s all about layers…
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Homemade Lasagna is the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with the warm, comforting smell of bubbling cheese, hearty tomato sauce, and tender pasta layers. It’s all about layers of rich, flavorful meat sauce, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and perfectly cooked noodles coming together in one big, satisfying dish.
I love making lasagna because it feels like a special treat, but it’s really just a big, lovely mix of simple ingredients that everyone loves. One of my favorite things is letting it rest just a bit after it comes out of the oven—that way, all the layers settle and slicing it becomes much easier. Plus, the flavors have a little more time to mingle, which makes each bite even better.
For me, homemade lasagna is perfect for family dinners or when friends come over. I like to serve it with a fresh green salad and some garlic bread on the side to soak up all the sauce. It’s the kind of meal that brings people to the table, sparks good conversation, and leaves everyone happily full.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds richness and heartiness. You can swap half or all with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian take, use cooked lentils or mushrooms instead.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and mild, it balances the tomato sauce and meat. Cottage cheese can be a good substitute if you want a lighter option; just drain it well first.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional noodles work best for layers. To save time, you can use no-boil noodles. Just make sure the sauce is saucy enough so they cook fully in the oven.
Mozzarella & Parmesan Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives that classic cheesy top. Parmesan adds a salty, nutty touch. If you prefer, try provolone or fontina for a different flavor twist.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought saves time, but homemade makes a big difference. If homemade, simmer it well with herbs for a deeper taste. You can add crushed red pepper for a bit of heat.
How Can I Get Perfect Layers Without Them Falling Apart?
Layering lasagna can seem tricky, but a few tips help it hold together and cook evenly:
- Cook noodles properly: If using regular noodles, boil them just until al dente. Don’t overcook, or they’ll be mushy after baking.
- Use enough sauce: A good amount of sauce on each layer keeps the noodles moist so the lasagna bakes without drying.
- Spread fillings evenly: Make sure cheese and sauce cover the noodles well but aren’t too thick, which helps the layers stick together.
- Let it rest after baking: This step is key. Rest for 10-15 minutes to let everything set before slicing to avoid messy pieces.
Following these steps makes slicing easier and helps your lasagna keep its beautiful shape when served.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the meat and cooking the sauce evenly.
- Large pot – to boil the lasagna noodles so they cook just right.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – roomy enough for layers to cook evenly without spilling.
- Mixing bowl – to combine ricotta, egg, and herbs easily.
- Aluminum foil – keeps the top from browning too fast while baking.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – handy for spreading sauce and cheese layers smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage for a spicier, richer flavor.
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the ricotta mix for a veggie boost.
- Mix mushrooms into the meat sauce to add earthiness and depth.
- Use a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a different melty cheese texture.
How to Make Homemade Lasagna?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lasagna recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation, 40 minutes for baking, plus about 10-15 minutes for resting before serving. Overall, plan for roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Meat Sauce:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking the meat into small pieces. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in the marinara sauce and dried oregano, then simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Prepare the Noodles and Cheese Mixture:
While the sauce simmers, cook the lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, following package directions. Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet to keep from sticking. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper, mixing until smooth.
3. Assemble and Bake the Lasagna:
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place 3 noodles over the sauce, then add one-third of the ricotta mixture, one-third of the meat sauce, and sprinkle with about 2/3 cup mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering two more times. Finish with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, then serve warm with your favorite sides like a green salad or garlic bread.
Can I Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles Instead?
Yes! No-boil noodles work well and save time. Just make sure your sauce is a bit more liquidy to help the noodles soften fully during baking. You can add an extra ¼ cup of water or sauce if needed.
How Should I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil, or microwave individual portions until heated through.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna as directed, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake it a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through.
What If I Don’t Have Ricotta Cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese (drained well) or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream for a creamy texture. Keep in mind the flavor may vary slightly but it will still be delicious!
