The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe
If there’s one dish that wraps comfort, rich flavors, and a hearty meal into one glorious package, it has to be The Best Homemade Lasagna. This classic Italian favorite brings together layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, tender pasta, and gooey mozzarella that simply melt in your mouth. Making it at home means you control every ingredient and can enjoy a fresh, soul-warming meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re looking for a special dinner to impress or craving a cozy night in, this lasagna recipe will become your go-to for celebration or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes creating The Best Homemade Lasagna a straightforward and rewarding process. Each component plays a crucial role in building the harmony of taste, texture, and color that defines this dish.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky base for sautéing onions and garlic, infusing them with rich flavor.
- Chopped onion: Provides a sweet and aromatic foundation for the meat sauce.
- Minced garlic cloves: Gives a subtle pungency and depth that wakes up the sauce.
- Ground beef: Delivers hearty savoriness and a satisfying meat texture.
- Ground pork: Adds tenderness and a slight sweetness to balance the beef.
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes: Offers a bright, fresh tomato flavor that forms the heart of the sauce.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates richness and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- Granulated sugar: Softens acidity and rounds out the tomato tang.
- Dried basil: Imparts an herbaceous, slightly sweet aroma.
- Dried oregano: Brings earthiness and authentic Italian character.
- Red pepper flakes: Adds just a touch of warming heat.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for perfect seasoning to enhance all flavors.
- Full-fat ricotta cheese: Creates creamy dollops that melt into luscious pockets of richness.
- Large egg: Binds and firms up the ricotta mixture for smooth layering.
- Lasagna noodles (uncooked): The sturdy yet tender sheets that hold all the delicious layers together.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, stretchy topping every lasagna deserves.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for sharp, nutty finishing flavor.
How to Make The Best Homemade Lasagna
Step 1: Make the Meat Sauce
Start with a large skillet over medium-high heat and warm the olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they soften and become fragrant — about a minute is just right to awaken those lovely scents. Then, add the ground beef and pork, stirring and breaking apart until completely browned and cooked through. Drain the excess fat carefully so your sauce isn’t greasy. Now add the tomato paste, canned diced tomatoes, granulated sugar, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer uncovered, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken for about 15 minutes. Keep tasting and adjust salt and pepper to your preference — this sauce is what gives The Best Homemade Lasagna its signature hearty, robust taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the full-fat ricotta cheese with a large egg, a pinch of dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Mixing these ingredients results in a creamy, rich filling that contrasts beautifully with the tangy meat sauce. This cheese layer adds moisture and softness that make each bite heavenly.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles until al dente according to the package directions. This means they’ll be tender with a little bite, perfect for layering. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking — this little step keeps assembling smooth and hassle-free.
Step 4: Assemble The Best Homemade Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep everything from sticking as it bakes. Begin by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom — this helps protect the noodles and infuses flavor from the first layer. Place three lasagna noodles on top, then add one third of the meat sauce, dollop one third of the ricotta filling across, and sprinkle with one cup of shredded mozzarella. Repeat this layering two more times, finishing with the remaining mozzarella cheese and a light dusting of Parmesan to create a golden, savory crust.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the assembled lasagna tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes, allowing the layers to meld and the cheese to melt evenly. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the top is bubbly and slightly browned – this final step adds irresistible texture and aroma. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes after baking to firm up slightly, making slicing easier and keeping every layer intact.
How to Serve The Best Homemade Lasagna
Garnishes
Serve your lasagna with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and a fresh, herbal note that brightens the rich dish. A small drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top just before serving provides a glossy finish and subtle fruity flavor that complements the melted cheese and tomato sauce.
Side Dishes
The Best Homemade Lasagna pairs wonderfully with simple green salads tossed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette is another classic choice, perfect for soaking up every last bit of delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve individual portions in deep plates, layering a spoonful of sauce and ricotta on the side to show off the layers. Alternatively, try baking in single-serve ramekins for elegant portioned servings that wow guests and offer a cozy, personalized touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Best Homemade Lasagna tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making for quick and satisfying meals anytime.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or future dinners.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven covered with foil for 20 to 30 minutes until heated through. For leftovers, a microwave works well for convenience but reheating in the oven maintains the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes! No-boil noodles save time and are a convenient option. Just ensure your meat sauce is a bit more liquidy to allow proper cooking during baking so the noodles soften perfectly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground meats with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version that keeps the robust flavors and satisfying texture.
What type of ricotta cheese works best?
Full-fat ricotta is ideal for The Best Homemade Lasagna because it provides creaminess and richness. Low-fat versions can be used but may result in a less smooth texture.
How can I tell when the lasagna is fully cooked?
Look for bubbling cheese on top and slightly golden edges. The internal temperature should reach around 160°F (71°C) to ensure all layers are hot and cooked through.
Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. This makes mealtime easier and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like the satisfaction of pulling The Best Homemade Lasagna fresh from the oven, filling your home with irresistible aromas that promise comfort and delight. With its delicious layers, simple ingredients, and cozy feel, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll come back to again and again. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and make yourself the ultimate homemade classic tonight!
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The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This homemade lasagna recipe features a rich meat sauce made with ground beef and pork, layered with creamy ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan for an irresistible Italian classic perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb ground pork
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ricotta Filling
- 16 oz full-fat ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- ¼ tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 9 lasagna noodles (uncooked)
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Make the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant and translucent. Add ground beef and pork, cooking until no pink remains. Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper. Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, sugar, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Ricotta Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, dried basil, salt, and pepper, mixing until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and lay flat on a clean towel to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Layer 3 noodles, then one-third of the meat sauce, dollops of one-third ricotta filling, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layering two more times, finishing with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs if available for a brighter flavor.
- Allow the lasagna to rest after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat sauce with a hearty vegetable sauce.
- Make ahead and refrigerate assembled lasagna for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: homemade lasagna, classic Italian lasagna, meat lasagna, ricotta cheese lasagna, baked pasta dish
