Homemade Lasagna Recipe – Authentic Italian Flavor

Lasagna Recipe

Lasagna recipe lovers, get ready to indulge in a comforting dish that brings the heart of Italy right to your kitchen! This delightful layered masterpiece features tender sheets of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a creamy blend of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, all harmoniously baked to perfection. With fresh basil and a sprinkle of nutmeg to elevate the flavors, each bite is a warm hug for your taste buds. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this lasagna will have everyone asking for seconds—so grab your apron and let’s create some delicious memories!

Table of Contents
lasagna recipe

Lasagna Recipe

Chef Jasper
Discover the ultimate lasagna recipe that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings! Perfect for family dinners! #lasagna
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 minute
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet For preparing the sauce.
  • 1 Large Pot For boiling the noodles.
  • 1 baking dish For assembling and baking the lasagna.

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 12 noodles Lasagna noodles Essential for layering and providing structure.

Cheese

  • 15 oz Ricotta cheese Adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
  • 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully for that gooey texture.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Brings a nutty flavor and a crispy topping when baked.

Meat

  • 1 lb Ground turkey or chicken A lean alternative to beef for a lighter dish.

Sauce

  • 2 cups Marinara sauce The flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together.

Binding Agent

  • 1 large Egg Helps bind the ricotta cheese mixture for a firmer filling.

Herbs and Spices

  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil Adds a burst of freshness and aroma.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  • 1 medium Onion Provides sweetness and depth to the meat sauce.

Seasoning

  • to taste Salt and pepper Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and toasty when your lasagna is ready to bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, and a pinch of sugar. Let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

  • Boil a large pot of salted water. Add lasagna noodles and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel.

Step 4: Mix the Cheese Filling

  • In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

  • In a baking dish, spread a layer of sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of noodles, then spread half of the ricotta mixture. Add a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles and sauce on top.

Step 6: Add the Final Touches

  • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and a bit of Parmesan on top. This will create a golden, bubbly crust!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

  • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Let it Rest

  • Once out of the oven, let your lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

  • Slice up your delicious lasagna, serve it warm, and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
Keyword lasagna

Why You’ll Love This Lasagna Recipe

  • It’s a family favorite that brings everyone together.
  • Layered with rich flavors, it’s pure comfort in every bite.
  • Customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins.
  • Easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day!

Recipe Snapshot

FeatureDetails
Category:Main Dish
Cuisine:Italian
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:45 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 15 minutes
Dietary:Vegetarian
Serves:6-8
Best Served:Hot with garlic bread

Ingredients for Lasagna Recipe

  • Lasagna noodles – essential for layering and providing structure.
  • Ricotta cheese – adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully for that gooey texture.
  • Parmesan cheese – brings a nutty flavor and a crispy topping when baked.
  • Ground turkey or chicken – a lean alternative to beef for a lighter dish.
  • Marinara sauce – the flavorful base that ties all the ingredients together.
  • Egg – helps bind the ricotta cheese mixture for a firmer filling.
  • Fresh basil – adds a burst of freshness and aroma.
  • Garlic – enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  • Onion – provides sweetness and depth to the meat sauce.
  • Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
Ingredients for lasagna including noodles, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and fresh herbs.
All the ingredients you need for a delicious lasagna.

How to Make the Lasagna Recipe

Get ready to create a delicious lasagna that will warm your heart and fill your belly!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and toasty when your lasagna is ready to bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, and a pinch of sugar. Let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add lasagna noodles and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel.

Step 4: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

In a baking dish, spread a layer of sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of noodles, then spread half of the ricotta mixture. Add a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles and sauce on top.

Step 6: Add the Final Touches

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and a bit of Parmesan on top. This will create a golden, bubbly crust!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Let it Rest

Once out of the oven, let your lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes. This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice up your delicious lasagna, serve it warm, and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!

A delicious lasagna being assembled with layers of noodles, sauce, and cheese.
Step-by-step guide to making the perfect lasagna.

Pro Tips for Making the Lasagna Recipe

  • Use no-boil lasagna noodles for a quicker prep time.
  • Layer your ingredients evenly for a balanced flavor in every bite.
  • Let your lasagna rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing; it helps hold its shape.
  • Experiment with different cheeses like ricotta or cottage cheese for a creamy texture.
  • Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a burst of flavor.

How to Serve Lasagna Recipe

  • Pair with a fresh garden salad for a crunchy contrast.
  • Serve with garlic bread for that perfect cheesy bite.
  • Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color.
  • Enjoy with a side of steamed veggies for a healthy touch.
  • Complement with a light, creamy Alfredo sauce drizzle for extra richness.
  • Offer a selection of cheeses on the side for a fun, customizable experience.
  • For a twist, serve with a dollop of pesto on each slice.
  • Finish off with a scoop of sorbet for a refreshing dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy your lasagna later without losing flavor or texture.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow lasagna to cool completely before storing.
• Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Cut lasagna into individual portions for easy thawing.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen lasagna in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cover with foil to retain moisture while reheating.
• Heat for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

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FAQs

Can I use no-boil noodles for this lasagna recipe?

Absolutely! No-boil noodles are a great time-saver and work perfectly in this lasagna. Just make sure to add a bit more sauce to keep everything moist while baking.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you’re looking for a ricotta substitute, try using cottage cheese blended until smooth or a mix of cream cheese and Greek yogurt. Both options will give you a creamy texture!

How can I make this lasagna recipe vegetarian?

To make a delicious vegetarian lasagna, simply replace the meat with layers of your favorite vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also add extra cheese for flavor!

Can I freeze lasagna for later?

Yes, lasagna freezes beautifully! Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake it straight from the freezer, adding a bit more time to the cooking process.