If you’ve ever craved a slice of pure comfort, Cheese Lasagna is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that never fails to deliver. With layer upon layer of tender noodles, creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and tangy marinara, there’s just something magical that happens when these ingredients come together. Whether you’re serving family or friends, or just treating yourself to a glorious weeknight dinner, this Cheese Lasagna wraps you in cozy Italian-American nostalgia from the very first bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheese Lasagna shines because of its simple yet essential ingredients—each one playing a key role in building flavor, texture, and that signature golden finish. Don’t skip or skimp: it’s the harmony of these basics that creates lasagna perfection.
- Lasagna noodles: Sturdy pasta sheets create those signature layers and absorb the savory sauce beautifully.
- Ricotta cheese (4 cups): Offers luscious creaminess and a mild, slightly sweet backdrop for all the flavors.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Melts perfectly, stretching into those irresistible cheese pulls.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Adds a boost of salty, umami richness in every bite.
- Large egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture, making it light and sliceable.
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): Brings a splash of color and a hint of fresh, herby flavor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and balance.
- Marinara sauce (4 cups): The tangy, tomatoey heart of any great Cheese Lasagna. Use your favorite jarred or homemade sauce.
- Extra shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for topping: Ensure your Cheese Lasagna is crowned with a gorgeously golden, bubbly top.
How to Make Cheese Lasagna
Step 1: Prep the Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a lightly oiled baking sheet—this is my favorite trick to keep them from sticking together while you prep the fillings and sauce.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
In a roomy mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and uniform, so every bite of your Cheese Lasagna is layered with cheesy goodness. The egg helps the filling set nicely without becoming heavy.
Step 3: Assemble the Cheese Lasagna
Spoon about 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 3-4 noodles over the sauce, letting them overlap a little if needed. Dollop and spread about one-third of the cheese mixture over the noodles, then ladle on another cup of marinara. Repeat this layering twice more, finishing with a final layer of noodles and all the remaining sauce on top.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Scatter a generous handful of extra shredded mozzarella and a good sprinkle of Parmesan over the top—the more, the merrier! Cover loosely with foil to help it bake evenly without sticking, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
Step 5: Finish Baking and Rest
Remove the foil and continue baking the Cheese Lasagna for another 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is golden, bubbling, and downright irresistible. Remove from the oven and, here comes the hardest part, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting. This gives the layers time to set for neat slices and maximum flavor.
How to Serve Cheese Lasagna
Garnishes
Give your Cheese Lasagna a finishing flourish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil—this not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous aroma that brightens every bite. A light dusting of extra Parmesan never hurts, either!
Side Dishes
The beauty of Cheese Lasagna is that it pairs beautifully with so many sides. Try a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or buttery garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate. Roasted seasonal vegetables offer a colorful, wholesome contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
You can transform your Cheese Lasagna into a showstopper by serving it in individually baked portions, garnished with a Parmesan crisp on top for extra flair. Or, try layering in some sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables between the cheeses for a twist. For an appetizer party, cut it into bite-sized squares and serve with mini forks—you’ll be the toast of the potluck!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cheese Lasagna is one of those rare meals that taste even better the next day. Store any leftover slices tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen overnight, making lunch or dinner the following day an even tastier event.
Freezing
If you’d like to save some for later, Cheese Lasagna freezes like a dream! Once cooled, portion into individual servings or wrap the entire dish well with plastic wrap and foil. It keeps perfectly in the freezer for up to two months. When your future self craves comfort food in a snap, you’ll be ready.
Reheating
For best results, reheat refrigerated Cheese Lasagna in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. A quick microwave zap works in a pinch, but the oven helps keep those layers nice and distinct.
FAQs
Can I add vegetables or meat to this Cheese Lasagna recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to layer in sautéed spinach, roasted zucchini, or mushrooms between the cheese layers. If you’re not vegetarian, browned ground beef or sausage can also be added to the marinara for a heartier lasagna. Just make sure any add-ins are cooked and drained well to keep the layers from getting soggy.
How do I keep lasagna noodles from sticking together?
Once drained, lay your cooked lasagna noodles flat on an oiled baking sheet or parchment paper. A light drizzle of olive oil and a gentle toss works, too. This simple step will make layering your Cheese Lasagna easy and frustration-free.
Can I make Cheese Lasagna ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire Cheese Lasagna up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. This is a lifesaver for entertaining or meal prep.
What’s the best way to get neat slices?
Letting the baked Cheese Lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting is key. Use a sharp, serrated knife and a wide spatula to lift out the slices. The resting time lets the cheese and sauce set, which keeps your layers beautiful and intact.
Can I use no-boil noodles instead?
Yes! No-boil noodles are a handy shortcut for Cheese Lasagna. Just ensure there’s enough sauce around each layer so the noodles soften as they bake. They may absorb a bit more liquid, so don’t be shy with the marinara.
Final Thoughts
If you’re dreaming of a dish that feels like an edible embrace, this Cheese Lasagna is as satisfying as it gets. It’s easy enough for beginners, impressive enough for guests, and it reheats beautifully. So gather your ingredients, pour yourself a little wine, and fall in love with this classic all over again—one cheesy layer at a time.
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Cheese Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheese Lasagna recipe is a comforting and classic dish that is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Layers of lasagna noodles, creamy ricotta cheese, gooey mozzarella, and savory Parmesan come together with marinara sauce to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles:
12 noodles
Ricotta Cheese Mixture:
4 cups ricotta cheese, 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Additional Ingredients:
4 cups marinara sauce, extra shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a lightly oiled baking sheet.
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the lasagna: Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer noodles, cheese mixture, and sauce, repeating until all ingredients are used.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rest and serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables to the cheese filling.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
