🍽️ Classic Homemade Lasagna Recipe
Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, hearty dish packed with layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this classic lasagna recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into making the perfect homemade lasagna! 🍝
🛒 Ingredients
For the Lasagna:
8 lasagna noodles
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
Salt and pepper, to taste
🍳 Kitchen Equipment
Large pot
Skillet
Mixing bowls
9×13-inch baking dish
Aluminum foil
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic.
Drain excess fat, then stir in marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then add half the remaining marinara sauce.
Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, and marinara sauce.
Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
🍷 Pairing & Serving Suggestions
Lasagna pairs wonderfully with:
Garlic bread 🥖
Caesar salad 🥗
Red wine 🍷 (such as Chianti or Sangiovese)
🔥 Variations & Substitutions
Make It Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Add More Flavor: Mix Italian sausage into the ground beef for a richer taste.
Make It Healthier: Use whole wheat lasagna noodles and substitute ricotta with cottage cheese.
❄️ Storage & Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, or microwave for 2-3 minutes.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Lasagna Recipe
This homemade lasagna is a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and meaty flavors. It’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying! Try this recipe today and enjoy a classic Italian dish at home. 🇮🇹🍽️
🍽 More Delicious Recipes!
Craving more comfort food? Check out our Orzo with Roasted Butternut Squash and Spinach recipe! 🍁
Ingredients:
1 cup orzo pasta
2 cups butternut squash (cubed)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp fresh thyme (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make:
Roast butternut squash at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Cook orzo pasta in salted water, then drain.
Sauté spinach in olive oil, then mix everything together with Parmesan.
Serve warm and enjoy! 🥗