classic lasagna recipe

Lasagna is one of the most beloved comfort foods, combining layers of pasta, hearty meat sauce, creamy cheese, and rich flavors baked to perfection. Its origins trace back to Italian cuisine, but it has become a global favorite for family dinners.

This dish is ideal for gatherings, meal prep, or simply indulging in a warm and satisfying homemade meal. With a little time and patience, the results are worth every bite.

Whether paired with garlic bread, salad, or enjoyed on its own, classic lasagna brings joy to the table and leaves everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients List

– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– 2 teaspoons dried basil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 12 lasagna noodles (traditional or no-boil)
– 15 oz ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
– 1 large egg
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, around 6–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: While the sauce simmers, cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions (if not using no-boil). Drain and set aside.

Step 5: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 7: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish. Place a layer of noodles on top, followed by ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and more sauce. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and mozzarella on top.

Step 8: Cover with foil (tent slightly to avoid touching the cheese) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

Step 9: Allow lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve warm.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings

Serves 8

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 480
Carbs: 38g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 22g

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze unbaked lasagna (tightly wrapped) for up to 2 months, or freeze baked portions for up to 3 months. Reheat covered in the oven until warmed through.

Pairings/Suggestions

Serve with a crisp Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or warm garlic bread. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Seasonal Relevance

Lasagna is versatile and enjoyed year-round, but it shines during cooler months when hearty comfort food is most welcome. It’s also a holiday favorite for family-style meals.

Health Benefits

Classic lasagna provides a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and fats. Beef delivers iron and B vitamins, while cheese contributes calcium and protein. Using part-skim cheeses and lean ground meat makes it lighter without sacrificing flavor. Adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the layers can boost fiber and nutrient content.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Comforting, hearty, and filling	Can be time-consuming to prepare
Perfect for family dinners or gatherings	Higher in calories and fat
Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep	Requires resting time before serving
Customizable with different fillings and cheeses	More cleanup due to multiple components

Conclusion

This classic lasagna recipe is rich, cheesy, and layered with flavor in every bite. The slow-simmered sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and gooey mozzarella make it the ultimate comfort food. While it takes some effort, the results are worth it.

Whether serving it for Sunday dinner, holidays, or a cozy weeknight, this dish never disappoints. Once you try it, you’ll see why lasagna remains a timeless favorite across generations.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance, refrigerate it covered, and bake when ready.

Q2: Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Absolutely, cottage cheese is a lighter alternative and works well in lasagna.

Q3: How do I prevent watery lasagna?
Make sure to simmer the sauce until thick, drain noodles properly, and allow the lasagna to rest before cutting.