There is something truly magical about gathering around the table with family and friends to share a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Nothing Beats a Good Lasagna Recipe when it comes to that satisfying blend of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and perfectly melted mozzarella layered between tender noodles. This classic Italian favorite is bursting with flavor, bringing a cozy, inviting atmosphere to any meal, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a timeless dish everyone adores.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating a lasagna that’s bursting with flavor and perfect texture. Each element plays a crucial role: from the savory meat sauce that lays the flavor foundation to the creamy cheese layers that add richness and the noodles that tie it all together beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork): Provides a hearty, meaty base for the sauce with rich flavor.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed with the meat.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers an aromatic punch that enhances the savory notes.
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes: Forms the luscious, tomatoey heart of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce: Adds smoothness and moisture to the sauce layers.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: A classic herb that brings a fresh, slightly sweet aroma.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Round out the herbal notes with a touch of earthiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to brighten and enhance every bite.
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese: Creates creamy, dreamy layers to contrast with the meat sauce.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ricotta mixture for smooth layering.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor inside the cheese layer.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried): Brings a fresh, herbaceous note to the ricotta mixture.
- 12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions): The tender pasta sheets that hold everything together beautifully.
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melted mozzarella offers gooey, delicious richness on every layer.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping: Gives a perfect golden, flavorful crust after baking.
How to Make Nothing Beats a Good Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. As these cook together, the kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma. Once the meat is browned and the onion tender, drain any excess fat for a leaner sauce. Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, dried basil, oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Let this simmer on low heat for 20 to 30 minutes to deepen all the flavors, creating that rich, savory base that is essential for our lasagna.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
While the sauce simmers, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley in a medium bowl. This blend will add a creamy, slightly tangy texture that beautifully complements the robust meat sauce. The egg helps hold everything together so the layers slice perfectly later.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the lasagna thoroughly while creating the golden, bubbly cheese topping that we all love.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce to prevent sticking and to start layering. Lay down 3 cooked lasagna noodles, then spread one-third of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by a third of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Top it all with another third of the meat sauce. Repeat these layers twice more, making sure to finish with a generous layer of meat sauce topped with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan for that perfect crust.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Cover the dish with foil—spray the foil lightly to prevent cheese from sticking—and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbling irresistibly. Once baked, allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 to 15 minutes; this helps it set and makes slicing so much easier, ensuring each piece holds together neatly.
How to Serve Nothing Beats a Good Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates a serving of lasagna more than simple, fresh garnishes. Sprinkle some chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil right before serving can add a subtle richness that ties all the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Lasagna is a hearty dish, so pairing it with light, refreshing sides works best. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is a classic companion, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve individual portions of lasagna in pretty ceramic dishes or ramekins. Layer some extra fresh herbs on top or sprinkle with flaky sea salt for an elegant finish. Another fun idea is to make mini lasagna cups using muffin tins for a playful party appetizer that packs all the classic flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover lasagna tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the oven to retain that delightful baked texture instead of the microwave, which can sometimes dry it out.
Freezing
This Nothing Beats a Good Lasagna Recipe is perfect for freezing. Assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake it covered from frozen, then uncover toward the end to get that bubbly, golden crust.
Reheating
For day-after deliciousness, reheat your lasagna covered with foil in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Removing the foil in the last few minutes helps restore the melted cheese’s golden brown finish and its wonderful texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Absolutely! You can swap beef with ground pork, turkey, or even a mix for added depth of flavor. Some people love the combination of beef and pork for a richer meat sauce.
Do I need to boil the lasagna noodles before assembling?
Yes, for this recipe, cooking the noodles according to package instructions before assembling ensures they are tender and perfect in the final dish. However, there are no-boil noodles available that can be used if you adjust the sauce consistency slightly.
Is it okay to prepare the lasagna a day ahead?
Yes! Preparing the lasagna the day before can actually enhance the flavors. Just assemble it and refrigerate it, then bake it fresh when you’re ready—perfect for stress-free entertaining.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley works just fine in this recipe, just use a smaller amount—about one teaspoon—to maintain the right balance of flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the ground meat with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of meat juices in the sauce. The cheese adds plenty of richness to keep it satisfying.
Final Thoughts
It’s honestly hard to beat the comfort and joy that a homemade lasagna brings to the table, and Nothing Beats a Good Lasagna Recipe when you want a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. From the first simmer of the meat sauce to the final golden cheese crust, every step is worth savoring. Give this recipe a try, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the heartwarming satisfaction that only a classic lasagna can deliver.
Print
Nothing Beats a Good Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This classic lasagna recipe features layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese mixture, and melted mozzarella, baked to bubbly golden perfection. Perfect for a family dinner, this hearty Italian favorite combines rich flavors with comforting textures in an easy-to-follow preparation.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
Assembly and Topping
- 12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes to develop deep flavors.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, large egg, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a creamy mixture.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the assembled lasagna.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 3 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spoon and spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Top with one-third of the meat sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with the remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the assembled lasagna with aluminum foil, spraying the foil with cooking spray first to prevent sticking. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the lasagna from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time helps the lasagna to set, making it easier to slice. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, homemade classic lasagna.
Notes
- Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente according to package instructions to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
- If preferred, you can substitute ground pork for all or part of the ground beef for a richer flavor.
- Fresh parsley adds bright flavor, but dried parsley works as a good substitute if needed.
- Covering the lasagna with foil during the first part of baking prevents the cheese from browning too quickly.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking improves texture and makes slicing cleaner.
