The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe

Name: The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 pound ground Italian sausage; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 28 oz crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Lasagna noodles; Additional mozzarella cheese for topping

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience comforting layers of rich flavors with this Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe. This classic dish features tender pasta sheets stacked with a luscious meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and mouthwatering mozzarella cheese, all baked to golden perfection. It's a family favorite that brings everyone together for a delicious meal any night of the week.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-20T07:07:59.457Z

Lasagna has always been a beloved dish in my family. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone around the table, sharing stories and laughter. To me, making lasagna is a labor of love, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Layers of homemade goodness
Comfort food at its finest
Perfect for family gatherings

      

Cooking Tips for Perfect Lasagna

To ensure your lasagna is perfect every time, consider cooking your noodles al dente. They will continue to cook while baking in the oven, absorbing some of the moisture from the sauce without becoming overly soft. Be sure to salt your pasta water generously for added flavor.

When making the meat sauce, allow it to simmer for a substantial amount of time. This enhances the flavors and develops a deeper richness. Additionally, you can experiment with herbs and spices like crushed red pepper for added depth.

Layering is crucial in lasagna. Start by spreading a base layer of sauce to prevent the noodles from sticking. Alternate layers of sauce, cheese mixture, and noodles, and ensure that you finish with a generous amount of cheese on top. This will result in a beautifully browned crust.

Storing and Reheating Lasagna

If you find yourself with leftover lasagna, storing it is easy. Allow the lasagna to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can last in the refrigerator for up to five days or in the freezer for up to three months. For freezing, consider cutting it into portions for easy reheating.

To reheat, you can use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 375°F, cover the lasagna with foil to keep it moist, and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. If using the microwave, heat individual portions but be aware that this method can make the noodles a bit softer.

Pairing Suggestions

Lasagna is a substantial dish and pairs beautifully with simple sides. A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a light contrast to the lasagna's richness. You can also add garlic bread for an extra treat, making it a truly hearty meal.

Consider serving your lasagna with a robust red wine, like Chianti or a Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines are excellent at cutting through the richness of the cheese and meat, enhancing your dining experience. Don't forget to finish your meal with a classic dessert like tiramisu for a complete Italian feast.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground Italian sausage
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
28 oz crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Mixture

15 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

Lasagna noodles
Additional mozzarella cheese for topping

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start!

Steps to Make Lasagna

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes.

Make the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Assemble the Lasagna

Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture, another layer of meat sauce, and repeat until all ingredients are used. Top with additional mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Cool and Serve

Allow the lasagna to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serve with a side salad for a complete meal!

Why Lasagna is a Family Favorite

Lasagna is more than just a delicious dish; it's a family tradition for many. With its rich, hearty layers, it brings everyone together around the table. Whether it’s for special occasions or just a weeknight dinner, lasagna has a way of making any meal feel more special.

Its versatility is also a significant factor in its popularity. You can customize your lasagna with various ingredients to suit your family’s tastes, including different meats, vegetables, or even meat-free options. This adaptability ensures that everyone can enjoy it.

Nutritional Considerations

While lasagna is a comfort food, it's important to balance it with nutritious ingredients. Consider incorporating more vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms, into your layers. This addition not only boosts the nutritional profile but also adds flavor and texture.

Choosing leaner meats, such as ground turkey or chicken, can reduce the overall fat content, making your lasagna a healthier option. Opting for whole grain or gluten-free noodles can also cater to dietary restrictions while still delivering great taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

→ Can I freeze lasagna?

Absolutely! Just cover it tightly with foil before freezing.