Hey y’all! If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food packed with layers of savory, cheesy goodness, look no further than this homemade lasagna recipe. It’s rich, filling, and perfect for everything from family dinners to cozy gatherings. Each bite offers melty cheese, luscious sauce, and tender pasta that’s completely irresistible. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This

Ultimate Comfort Food: Layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese make for a heartwarming meal.
Perfect for Crowds: Feeds a crowd and is always a hit at potlucks or family gatherings.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Easily prep in advance and bake when ready.
Customizable: Simple to adapt with various meats, veggies, or cheeses.
Leftover-Friendly: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1/2 lb (225g) Italian sausage, casing removed
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz / 800g) can crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 (15 oz / 425g) can tomato sauce
1 tsp sugar
2 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
12 lasagna noodles
15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
1 egg
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 2 tsp dried)
2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil

Directions

Step 1: Make the Meat Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Add the ground beef and sausage, breaking up the meat with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thick and fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Meanwhile, cook lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions, until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and lay noodles flat on a parchment-lined tray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and parsley. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Layer the Lasagna

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread 1 cup of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish.
Layer with 4 noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, a third of the mozzarella, and a third of the Parmesan.
Repeat with more sauce, noodles, ricotta, and cheeses. Finish with a final layer of noodles and remaining sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
Let rest 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Let your lasagna rest after baking for cleaner slices and better flavor melding.
Don’t over-boil the noodles—al dente holds up best during baking.
For extra cheesy goodness, add an extra sprinkle of mozzarella on top before baking uncovered.

Variations

Vegetarian Lasagna: Swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna: Use shredded cooked chicken and a creamy Alfredo sauce in place of the tomato sauce.
Spicy Sausage Lasagna: Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat.

Required Equipment

Large skillet
Stockpot
Mixing bowls
9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish
Colander
Foil

Storage Instructions

Cool lasagna completely before storing. Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months—thaw in refrigerator before reheating. To reheat, bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until hot in the center.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in Italian vinaigrette.
Pair with garlic bread for a classic combo.
Enjoy alongside a glass of bold red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese.

Pro Tips

Layer cheese evenly for consistent melty goodness in every bite.
For a deeper flavor, prepare your sauce a day ahead.
Add a dash of nutmeg to the ricotta mixture for subtle warmth.

FAQ

1. Can I assemble lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble lasagna up to 24 hours in advance; cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

2. What’s the best way to keep lasagna from being too watery?

Be sure to simmer your sauce until thick and drain noodles well to avoid excess moisture.

3. Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta—just drain any excess liquid first for best results.

Lasagna

Why You’ll Love This

Ingredients