Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Lasagna Recipe is the perfect comforting dish for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and tender pasta, it’s a foolproof classic that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Great for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead, this lasagna is hearty, satisfying, and loved by all ages.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

lasagna noodlesground beefoniongarlicmarinararicotta cheeseshredded mozzarella cheesegrated parmesan cheeseeggolive oildried oreganofresh basil (optional)salt and pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.

Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.

Stir in marinara sauce and let simmer for 10 minutes.

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the parmesan. Mix until smooth.

Spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

Add a layer of noodles, followed by a layer of ricotta mixture, then shredded mozzarella.

Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with meat sauce and a final sprinkle of mozzarella and remaining parmesan.

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 40-45 minutesResting time: 10-15 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a spicier kick.

Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms between layers for extra vegetables.

Swap ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter texture.

Make it vegetarian by using lentils or plant-based meat.

Use no-boil noodles to skip the boiling step and save time.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.To freeze, assemble lasagna in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and bake when ready.

What’s the best cheese for lasagna?

Mozzarella and ricotta are classic, but you can also add provolone or fontina.

Do I need to cook the noodles first?

Yes, unless you are using oven-ready (no-boil) noodles.

How do I keep lasagna from being watery?

Drain excess fat from the meat, and avoid overly watery sauces or veggies.

Can I freeze baked lasagna?

Absolutely, cool completely, then freeze in portions or as a whole.

How long should lasagna rest before serving?

Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to firm up and make slicing easier.

Can I use store-bought sauce?

Yes, choose a high-quality marinara for the best results.

How do I prevent cheese from burning?

Cover with foil for most of the baking time, then uncover at the end to brown.

Is it okay to skip the egg in ricotta?

You can, but the egg helps bind the cheese layer and improves texture.

What sides go well with lasagna?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables are excellent options.

Conclusion

This Easy Lasagna Recipe is a reliable, delicious choice that brings everyone to the table with smiles. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a guaranteed hit whether you’re serving it fresh, reheating leftovers, or freezing a batch for later. Give it a try and enjoy the layers of flavor and comfort in every bite.