Homemade Lasagna recipe
Homemade Lasagna is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate,…
Tip: save now, cook later.Homemade Lasagna is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, with every bite offering a perfect mix of flavors and textures that makes you feel right at home.
I love making lasagna from scratch because it fills the kitchen with such a wonderful aroma and it’s a great way to bring everyone together. One of my favorite tricks is to let it rest a little after baking—this helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and even better to eat. Plus, leftovers taste just as good the next day!
Serving homemade lasagna with a simple green salad or some garlic bread makes it a complete meal that everyone loves. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a get-together with friends, this dish always feels special and brings out the smiles. I find there’s something truly satisfying about digging into a homemade lasagna that you know was made with care and lots of love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna noodles: Traditional pasta sheets work best, but no-boil noodles are a time-saver. Just add a bit more sauce to soften them during baking.
Ground beef & Italian sausage: Mixed meats add great flavor. You can swap sausage for ground turkey or omit meat for a veggie version.
Ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese is a must for texture. Cottage cheese can be used as a lighter alternative if you’re short on ricotta.
Mozzarella & Parmesan: Mozzarella melts beautifully, while Parmesan adds sharpness. You can try provolone or pecorino for a flavor twist.
Marinara sauce: Homemade or store-bought both work. Feel free to add extra garlic or herbs to brighten the sauce if you like.
How Do You Build Layers That Don’t Fall Apart?
Building sturdy lasagna layers means layering with care to keep everything balanced and moist.
- Start with a thin layer of sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Lay noodles flat without overlapping to avoid clumps.
- Spread the ricotta mix evenly to add creaminess and help bind layers.
- Add shredded cheese evenly to ensure gooey melt throughout.
- Finish with plenty of sauce and cheese on top to keep the pasta moist.
Once baked, letting the lasagna rest for 15 minutes helps the layers set, so slices hold together nicely when served.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the lasagna noodles without sticking.
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking the meat and sauce evenly.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – just the right size for layering and baking your lasagna.
- Mixing bowl – for blending ricotta cheese, egg, and herbs smoothly.
- Aluminum foil – to cover the lasagna while baking and keep it moist.
- Slotted spoon or tongs – handy for lifting noodles from boiling water without tearing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option that stays flavorful.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies and a boost of texture.
- Use a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a creamier, slightly tangy taste.
- Stir in chopped fresh basil or oregano into the sauce to brighten up the classic flavors.
How to Make Homemade Lasagna?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) jar marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This homemade lasagna takes about 30 minutes for preparation, including cooking the noodles and making the sauce, plus 50 minutes baking time. After baking, it’s best to let it rest for at least 15 minutes before serving to set properly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Noodles:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet to keep them from sticking.
2. Make the Meat Sauce:
While the noodles are cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add ground beef and Italian sausage if using. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
Spread about 1 cup of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange 3 to 4 noodles over the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with one-third of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake and Rest:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Can I Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
Yes! No-boil noodles work well and save time. Just be sure to add a little extra sauce when assembling to help them soften completely while baking.
Can I Make Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding about 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze Homemade Lasagna?
Yes, lasagna freezes beautifully! Freeze before baking or after it’s cooled. Wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.