If there’s one dish that always brings the family together at dinnertime, it’s classic lasagna. This Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe layers comfort in every bite, with perfectly cooked noodles, savory meat sauce bubbling under stretchy mozzarella, and creamy ricotta for richness. Whether you’re looking to impress on Sunday supper or satisfy a weeknight pasta craving, this is that golden, cheese-laden favorite everyone will ask for again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple, yet each ingredient plays a star role in building flavor and a stunning presentation. The right blend of cheese, sauce, meat, and herbs is the secret to the Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe you’ll crave on repeat!
- Lasagna noodles (9 sheets): Traditional or oven-ready, they become the sturdy foundation for every luscious layer.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds depth and helps sauté the vegetables and meat for extra flavor.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Rich, hearty, and classic—swap for turkey or sausage if you like, but beef is pure comfort.
- Small onion, diced: Brings sweetness and balance to the savory sauce.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Provides an irresistible aroma and that quintessential Italian flavor.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a subtle bite.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Gives your sauce earthy, herbaceous notes.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Deepens the Italian flavor; a must-have for lasagna’s signature taste.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who like a gentle kick—add to taste or skip for a mild version.
- Marinara sauce (24 ounces): Jarred sauce keeps things easy, but don’t be afraid to use your homemade favorite!
- Ricotta cheese (15 ounces): Creates that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture between layers.
- Large egg: Binds the ricotta so it stays rich and smooth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds salty, nutty depth that elevates every forkful.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): The classic stretchy topper that bubbles beautifully in the oven.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle for color and garden-fresh flavor right before serving.
How to Make Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Noodles
Set yourself up for ooey-gooey, sliceable layers by cooking the lasagna noodles until just al dente, according to your package directions. Be generous with stirring so they don’t stick, then drain and lay flat or gently toss with a touch of oil while you prepare the rest—this keeps them from sticking and tearing when you assemble your Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Warm up the olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat, then add the diced onion. Let it get soft and fragrant, about two to three minutes, then toss in those beautiful minced garlic cloves for another quick stir—just a minute or so until your kitchen smells amazing.
Step 3: Cook the Meat and Season
Crumble the ground beef into the pan, breaking it up as it browns. You want everything cooked through and deeply savory. Sprinkle in your salt, pepper, basil, oregano, and (if you love a little heat) the red pepper flakes. Each spice wakes up the sauce, making that signature Italian aroma burst to life.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the jar of marinara, stirring to pick up all the tasty bits from the bottom. Let it simmer together for about five minutes so the flavors can meld and the sauce thickens just a touch. Then, set it aside to cool off while you make the cheese mixture.
Step 5: Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a medium bowl, blend the ricotta, egg, and grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy. This mixture becomes rich and fluffy in the oven, giving classic Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe its cozy, cheesy soul.
Step 6: Layer the Lasagna
Grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom (this keeps noodles from sticking). Lay down three noodles, then top with one-third of the ricotta mixture, a third of the meat sauce, and a third of the mozzarella. Repeat this layering two more times, letting the final sprinkle of mozzarella crown the top for ultimate cheesiness.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the pan with foil and slide it into your 375°F oven. Bake covered for 25 minutes, then remove the foil so the top can bubble and brown for another 15 to 20 minutes. Rest it for ten minutes after baking—this is the secret to clean, beautiful slices when serving your Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe.
How to Serve Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A shower of fresh, chopped parsley right before serving is all you need for that finished look—a little pop of color and flavor that brightens each slice of Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cheesy lasagna loves simple sides: think crisp green salads with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or a warm basket of garlic bread. Anything that mops up sauce and contrasts the richness is a welcome match.
Creative Ways to Present
Try assembling in individual ramekins for single servings, or layer in a round pan for a fun, pie-style lasagna. For a party, cut cooled squares into smaller bites or serve alongside family-style platters with colorful roasted veggies—Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe always steals the spotlight!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe can be covered tightly and refrigerated for up to four days. The flavors usually get even better as they meld together, making the next-day slices extra tasty.
Freezing
This dish freezes like a dream! Wrap individual portions, or the whole pan, in foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to two months. Bake straight from frozen (adding extra baking time), or thaw overnight in the fridge for an easy meal whenever cravings strike.
Reheating
You’ll get best results reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through—keep it covered to prevent the top from drying out. Alternatively, microwave individual slices for quick lunches or dinners on the go.
FAQs
Can I use oven-ready noodles instead of boiling regular ones?
Absolutely! Oven-ready noodles make this Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe even simpler—just add them dry to your layers and let the sauce soften them as it bakes, saving time without sacrificing on taste or texture.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can easily swap in ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Each brings its own flavor and works deliciously in this flexible lasagna base.
Is it possible to prepare the lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, one of the joys of Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe is that you can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated—just bake as instructed when you’re ready to eat!
Do I have to use ricotta cheese?
Ricotta cheese is classic, but cottage cheese works as a lighter substitute. Both will add the creamy, soft layer that makes lasagna so comforting, with just a slight difference in texture.
How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?
Aim for a thicker meat sauce by simmering it uncovered for a few minutes to let excess liquid evaporate. Also, let the lasagna rest after baking—this helps the layers set beautifully instead of sliding apart.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s as joyful to make as it is to share, the Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe is pure magic. Gather your favorite people, serve up those cheesy layers, and watch your kitchen transform into the most comforting spot in the house. Give it a try—you’re about to discover your new favorite family tradition!
Print
Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe is a classic Italian-American dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. Layers of lasagna noodles, flavorful meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and gooey cheese make this a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles:
- 9 lasagna noodles
Meat Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
Ricotta Mixture:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the meat sauce: In a skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer.
- Make the ricotta mixture: Combine ricotta, egg, and Parmesan in a bowl.
- Assemble the lasagna: Layer meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella in a baking dish. Repeat layers twice, ending with mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can make this lasagna ahead and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours.
- Substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage if preferred.
- Use oven-ready noodles for quicker prep (skip boiling step).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
