Classic Lasagna
A comforting dish filled with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 sheets Lasagna Noodles, no-boil variety
- 1 pound Ground Beef Can substitute with turkey or plant-based meat.
- ½ pound Italian Sausage Spicy sausage can be used for added flavor.
- 3 cups Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought.
- 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Can substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter version.
- 3 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 1 large Egg For mixing with ricotta.
- ¼ cup Fresh Basil, chopped Can substitute with dried basil if fresh is unavailable.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Add the minced garlic and stir for a fragrant minute.
- Pour in the marinara sauce, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, fresh basil, and a pinch of salt. Stir until creamy and smooth.
Layering
- Spread a layer of the meat sauce in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Place a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers until the dish is filled, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and mozzarella on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Baking
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For vegetarian options, replace meat with sautéed vegetables. For extra cheesiness, add additional layers of cheese. Experiment with herbs for different flavor profiles.