If you have a soft spot for Italian comfort food, then this Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe is going to feel like a warm hug from your kitchen. It’s a timeless, satisfying dish that layers rich, savory meat sauce with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella, all nestled between perfectly cooked noodles. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy family dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes and fills the house with irresistible aromas that promise pure comfort in every bite. Trust me, once you make this Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe, it will quickly become a weeknight staple you’ll happily make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
They say great dishes start with great ingredients, and this Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe is no exception. Each simple ingredient works its magic to create that perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors—from the hearty meat sauce and tender noodles to the creamy cheese filling and golden melted top.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds a rich, meaty base essential for the sauce’s depth.
- 1 pound Italian sausage: Boosts flavor with its aromatic herbs and spices.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings natural sweetness and soft texture when cooked.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a warm, savory punch.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: The red heart of the sauce, providing freshness and color.
- 2 (6 oz) cans tomato paste: Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the sauce perfectly.
- 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce: Adds smoothness and balances acidity.
- 1/2 cup water: Keeps the sauce from getting too thick during simmering.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Cuts down on acidity and enhances natural sweetness.
- 3 teaspoons dried basil leaves: Brings an herby, slightly sweet aroma.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings complexity.
- 1 tablespoon salt: Elevates every other flavor seamlessly.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and earthiness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Freshness that cuts through richness and brightens the dish.
- 16 ounces ricotta cheese: The creamy, dreamy filling that melts beautifully between layers.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ricotta mixture together for perfect layering.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For extra herbaceous flavor in the cheese mix.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the ricotta’s mild flavor.
- 12 lasagna noodles: The essential starchy layers holding it all together.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Gooey, stretchy, and essential for that signature lasagna melt.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and a wonderful golden crust.
How to Make Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Start by browning your ground beef, Italian sausage, and finely chopped onion in a large skillet. This combination lays the savory foundation of the sauce. Once the meat is nicely browned and the onion turns tender, drain off any excess fat to keep your sauce from getting greasy. Add the minced garlic and cook it just long enough to release its fragrant aroma—about a minute is perfect. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water to create a rich, thick sauce. Season with sugar, basil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley, then let it simmer covered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer lets all those wonderful flavors marry beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling
While your sauce is simmering away, mix the ricotta cheese with the egg, chopped fresh parsley, and salt in a medium bowl. The egg acts as a binder, ensuring your cheese layer holds together once baked. This creamy, herbed filling is a key part of what makes the Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe so special, providing a velvety layer that contrasts perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce and tender noodles.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente – tender but still firm to the bite. Drain the noodles carefully and lay them flat on parchment paper or a clean kitchen towel to stop them from sticking together. This step ensures easy layering without frustration.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get your 9×13-inch baking dish ready. Start by spreading 1 ½ cups of the luscious meat sauce on the bottom — this prevents sticking and adds moisture. Next, layer 4 noodles on top, then spread one-third of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle with one-third of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses to add that irresistible gooeyness and sharp finish. Repeat the layering two more times, topping it all off with the remaining meat sauce and cheese. Each layer builds the wonderful interplay of textures and flavors that defines the Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover your lasagna with aluminum foil – this keeps the moisture trapped and helps everything cook evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and bake for another 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, golden, and slightly browned on top. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven; this step allows the layers to settle and makes slicing it much easier without losing any of that beautiful cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few fresh basil leaves on top adds a burst of color and fresh herbaceous notes that brighten each rich bite. If you’re feeling indulgent, a light dusting of extra grated Parmesan cheese right before serving adds a lovely salty finish.
Side Dishes
Lasagna is hearty, so pairing it with fresh, crisp sides is a great idea. A garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a simple Caesar salad balances the richness beautifully. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices offer a crunchy contrast and help scoop up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve lasagna in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for charming portions. Alternatively, adding some roasted vegetables between the layers can sneak extra nutrition and texture into each bite. Garnishing each plate with a drizzle of quality olive oil or a light balsamic glaze can elevate the presentation and add an unexpected flavor boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe is a gift that keeps on giving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Covered well, it keeps its flavors intact and is completely safe to enjoy cold or reheated.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes beautifully. Wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results, preserving the texture and taste.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the lasagna with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes until heated through. Removing the foil in the last few minutes encourages the cheese to crisp back up nicely. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered loosely to avoid drying out, reheating in short bursts and stirring if necessary.
FAQs
Can I make this Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the beef and sausage for sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach or use plant-based meat alternatives. The rest of the recipe stays the same for a delicious veggie-friendly lasagna.
Do I need to boil the noodles before assembling?
For this recipe, yes, cooking the noodles al dente ensures they soften properly during baking and prevents a chewy texture. However, some no-boil noodles exist for convenience, but follow their package instructions if you choose those.
Can I prepare this lasagna in advance?
Yes! Assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This actually helps the flavors marry even better. Just remember to add extra baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What kind of cheese works best?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are classic for a reason. Ricotta provides creaminess, mozzarella melts perfectly for that stretchy texture, and Parmesan adds sharp flavor and a beautiful golden finish when baked.
How can I make the lasagna less salty?
To control saltiness, reduce the added salt slightly and use low-sodium tomato products. Taste your sauce before assembling and adjust seasoning as needed. Remember that cheeses like Parmesan also contribute salt, so balance accordingly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing this Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe that feels like creating a little Italian feast at home. It brings warmth, comfort, and a smile to any meal, turning even an ordinary day into a celebration. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and find it becoming a cherished favorite in your kitchen too!
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Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This easy lasagna recipe combines a hearty meat sauce with rich ricotta and melted mozzarella for a classic Italian favorite that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese bake to bubbly perfection, making it an ideal comforting meal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 (6 oz) cans tomato paste
- 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 teaspoons dried basil leaves
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Cheese Mixture
- 16 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Other Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and finely chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess fat. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Add sugar, dried basil leaves, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and chopped fresh parsley. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, chopped fresh parsley, and salt. Mix well until smooth and set aside for layering.
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles carefully and lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking until ready for assembly.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1½ cups of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with one-third of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layering process two more times, finishing with the remaining meat sauce and cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the assembled lasagna with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 25 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly browned. Remove from oven and let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the cooked meat to prevent a greasy sauce.
- Using fresh parsley in both the sauce and cheese mixture adds bright flavor.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps it hold its shape when cut.
- Lasagna noodles can be prepared a few hours ahead and kept covered to prevent drying.
- For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
