If you have ever dreamed of creating a comforting, crowd-pleasing Italian classic right in your own kitchen, then you’re in for a treat. The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe combines rich layers of seasoned ground beef and pork, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey mozzarella, all nestled between tender noodles and framed with a perfectly simmered tomato sauce. This lasagna is like a warm hug on a plate—hearty, flavorful, and ultimately satisfying. Whether it’s a family dinner, a special occasion, or just a reason to gather around the table, this beloved recipe is sure to become one of your favorites, delivering that authentic taste that makes every bite memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh, and thoughtfully combined, the ingredients for this recipe all play an essential role in building the rich flavors and textures you crave in The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe. From the savory meat mixture to the creamy cheeses and perfectly seasoned tomato sauce, each component contributes to the delicious harmony you’ll enjoy.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base with natural richness.
- ½ lb ground pork: Adds extra depth and juiciness to the meat sauce.
- 1 cup chopped onion: Brings sweetness and aromatic flavor to the sauce.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with fragrant, robust undertones.
- 16 oz full-fat ricotta cheese: Offers creamy, smooth texture essential for the layers.
- 9 uncooked lasagna noodles: Those tender pasta sheets hold all the layers together beautifully.
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly to create gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to gently sauté aromatics and enhance flavor.
- 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes: Forms the fresh and tangy base of the meat sauce.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar: Balances acidity and rounds out the sauce.
- ½ tsp dried basil: Adds a hint of sweet herbaceousness.
- ½ tsp dried oregano: Introduces a warm, earthy note classic to Italian cooking.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes: Gives a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ricotta mixture together for perfect layering.
- ¼ tsp dried basil: Added to the ricotta mix for extra herbal brightness.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Toppings with nutty, salty excellence that crisps up beautifully.
How to Make The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Meat
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Gently sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they turn soft and fragrant, releasing their natural sweetness. Then, add the ground beef and pork, cooking until well browned. This sizzling step builds the flavor base that will make your lasagna sing with every bite.
Step 2: Simmer the Rich Meat Sauce
Once your meat is browned, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let this vibrant sauce simmer gently for 30 minutes, allowing all the ingredients to meld together and develop that deep, savory tomato flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Ricotta Mixture
While the sauce is simmering, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg, a pinch of dried basil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. This mixture adds the luscious creamy layers between the noodles and meat sauce, making each bite perfectly rich and balanced.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the savory meat sauce. Then carefully layer three of the uncooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly on top, followed by one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering method, ending with the remaining meat sauce and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a beautifully golden finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover your lasagna with foil and bake for 25 minutes to keep it moist. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the top to become bubbly and golden brown. Letting it cool for about 10-15 minutes after baking is crucial to achieve clean, perfect slices and to let the flavors settle beautifully.
How to Serve The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Top your lasagna with freshly chopped basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for a fresh, colorful touch. Adding a drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving can also enhance the flavors and provide a lovely sheen that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This lasagna pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a plate of garlicky roasted vegetables. Warm, crusty bread or garlic knots make excellent companions, perfect for soaking up every last bit of that heavenly sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your lasagna in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a fun and elegant presentation. Layering the components in clear glass dishes lets everyone admire those beautiful layers. Or invite guests to personalize their own slices by offering toppings like fresh herbs, chili flakes, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon for extra brightness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you enjoy your meal, cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making for perfect next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions in foil and place them in airtight freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy this comfort food anytime you crave it without the fuss.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and heated through. For refrigerated leftovers, microwave or oven reheat until steaming hot, ensuring every layer regains its luscious texture.
FAQs
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?
Yes, using no-boil noodles works perfectly with this recipe since the lasagna bakes covered, allowing the noodles to absorb the sauce and become tender during cooking.
Can I substitute the ground meat with vegetables for a vegetarian version?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef and pork with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, and eggplant for a delicious vegetarian lasagna that still has great flavor and texture.
Is it okay to prepare the lasagna a day ahead?
Yes, assembling the lasagna a day before baking allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake as directed when ready.
What kind of cheese can I use if I don’t have ricotta?
Cottage cheese is a good substitute for ricotta in a pinch. Just be sure to blend it smooth and drain excess moisture to maintain the right creamy texture in the layers.
How do I know when the lasagna is fully cooked?
The lasagna is ready when it is bubbly around the edges, the cheese on top is golden brown, and the noodles are tender. Letting it rest after baking helps everything set perfectly for clean slicing.
Final Thoughts
There’s really nothing like the joy of serving The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe from your own kitchen. It’s warm, comforting, and an easy way to bring loved ones together around one delicious meal. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become your go-to for special dinners or anytime you want to impress with hearty, authentic Italian flavors. So get cooking and enjoy every mouthwatering bite!
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The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Halal
Description
This classic homemade lasagna recipe features layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and melty mozzarella cheese baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it combines ground beef and pork simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with herbs and spices, all layered with uncooked noodles for a convenient, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb ground pork
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 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
Cheese Mixture
- 16 oz full-fat ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- ¼ tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Assembly and Topping
- 9 uncooked lasagna noodles
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook Meat and Simmer Sauce: Add the ground beef and pork to the skillet, breaking it apart and cooking until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, granulated sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 30 minutes to develop flavor.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the full-fat ricotta cheese with the egg, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy filling.
- Preheat Oven and Start Layering: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of the prepared meat sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place three uncooked lasagna noodles over the sauce in a single layer.
- Add Cheese and Repeat Layers: Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat this layering process, ending with the remaining meat sauce on top. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the surface.
- Bake Covered and Uncovered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes until the lasagna is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time helps the layers to set and makes serving easier.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option in the meat sauce.
- Let the lasagna rest at least 10 minutes after baking to prevent it from falling apart when cut.
- If you prefer softer noodles, you can boil lasagna noodles slightly before assembling, although this recipe uses uncooked noodles directly in the sauce.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives a mild spicy kick; adjust according to your taste.
- Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze portions for up to 2 months.
