Classic Italian Lasagna

Lasagna is the quintessential Italian comfort food—a rich, hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family meal. With layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese, this classic Italian lasagna is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Classic Italian Lasagna is everything you love about traditional Italian cooking—layers of rich, flavorful meat sauce and creamy béchamel, all baked to perfection. The combination of perfectly seasoned ground beef, mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan creates a satisfying meal that is both filling and comforting. The flavors only improve as the dish rests, making it an excellent make-ahead option for busy days. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate your favorite variations or dietary preferences, making it a meal that everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
• 1 lb mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 egg
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, basil, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
7. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer the cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of ricotta mixture, a layer of mozzarella, and a layer of meat sauce.
8. Repeat the layers until the ingredients are used up, finishing with a top layer of meat sauce, mozzarella, and the remaining Parmesan.
9. Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
10. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Lasagna: Substitute the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or eggplant. You can also add extra ricotta or a plant-based mozzarella to keep it dairy-free.
• Gluten-Free Lasagna: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a gluten-free option.
• Spicy Lasagna: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for an extra kick of spice.
• No-Boil Noodles: If you’re short on time, use no-boil lasagna noodles, which save the step of pre-cooking the noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: Allow leftover lasagna to cool completely before covering and storing it in the fridge. It will keep for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Lasagna freezes well. Wrap the cooled lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake the lasagna in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes until heated through. For frozen lasagna, bake it covered with foil for 45-60 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

FAQs

How can I make my lasagna sauce thicker?

If your lasagna sauce is too thin, you can simmer it for longer to reduce and thicken it. Adding a tablespoon of tomato paste can also help thicken the sauce.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef for a lighter version of this dish. It will still work great with the other ingredients.

How do I prevent my lasagna from being too watery?

Ensure the noodles are well-drained and avoid over-layering the sauce. If you’re using fresh vegetables, consider sautéing them to release some moisture before layering them in the lasagna.

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna the day before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

Is it necessary to use ricotta cheese?

Ricotta cheese is traditional in lasagna, but you can substitute it with cottage cheese, mascarpone, or a combination of cream cheese and sour cream for a different flavor and texture.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Yes! Homemade marinara sauce can elevate the flavor of the lasagna. Just be sure it’s thick enough so that it doesn’t make the layers too runny.

Should I cover the lasagna while baking?

Yes, covering the lasagna with foil while baking helps it cook evenly without drying out. Removing the foil at the end allows the cheese to become bubbly and golden.

How can I prevent the noodles from sticking together?

To prevent sticking, stir the noodles occasionally while boiling, and once they’re done, rinse them with cool water before layering them in the lasagna.

Can I make lasagna without cheese?

While cheese is a key part of a traditional lasagna, you can omit it or use dairy-free alternatives for a cheese-free version.

How long should I let the lasagna rest before serving?

Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut.

Conclusion

Classic Italian Lasagna is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its rich layers of meat sauce, creamy cheese, and hearty pasta make it a perfect choice for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. Whether you’re sticking to the traditional recipe or making some delicious variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the hearty flavors and indulge in this classic Italian favorite!

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