Nothing beats a warm, homemade lasagna with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and perfectly cooked pasta. This classic lasagna recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions.
With a slow-simmered sauce, a creamy ricotta mixture, and plenty of cheese, this lasagna is comfort food at its best. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing dish!
Why You’ll Love This Lasagna
Incredibly flavorful – A rich, slow-cooked meat sauce makes all the difference.
Cheesy & hearty – Layers of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan create the perfect balance.
Perfect for gatherings – Feeds a crowd and tastes even better the next day.
Make-ahead & freezer-friendly – Easy to prepare in advance for stress-free meals.What Does This Lasagna Taste Like?
Each bite of this classic lasagna is a perfect blend of textures and flavors—savory, tangy tomato sauce, tender pasta, and gooey, melty cheese. The sweet Italian sausage adds depth, while a hint of fennel and basil enhances the dish’s authentic Italian flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 12)
For the Meat Sauce:
1 pound sweet Italian sausage
¾ pound lean ground beef
½ cup minced onion
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cans (6.5 oz each) tomato sauce
2 cans (6 oz each) tomato paste
½ cup water
2 tablespoons white sugar
4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, divided
1 ½ teaspoons dried basil leaves
1 ½ teaspoons salt, divided
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon fennel seeds
¼ teaspoon ground black pepperFor the Pasta & Cheese Layers:
12 lasagna noodles
16 ounces ricotta cheese
1 egg
¾ pound mozzarella cheese, sliced
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheeseKitchen Tools You’ll Need
Large pot for boiling noodles
Dutch oven or deep skillet for the sauce
Mixing bowls
9x13-inch baking dish
Aluminum foil
Cooking spray (to prevent sticking)
How to Make the Best Lasagna
- Prepare the Meat Sauce In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and water.
Add sugar, 2 tablespoons parsley, basil, 1 teaspoon salt, Italian seasoning, fennel seeds, and black pepper.
Cover and simmer for 1 ½ hours, stirring occasionally. - Cook the Noodles Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the lasagna noodles for 8–10 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water. - Prepare the Ricotta Mixture In a mixing bowl, combine:
Ricotta cheese
Egg
Remaining 2 tablespoons parsley
½ teaspoon salt - Preheat the Oven Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Assemble the Lasagna Spread 1 ½ cups meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange 6 lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping.
Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
Top with ⅓ of the mozzarella slices, 1 ½ cups meat sauce, and ¼ cup Parmesan.
Repeat layers, then top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. - Bake & Rest Cover with foil (sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking).
Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for 25 more minutes.
Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
What to Serve with Lasagna
This lasagna is a meal on its own, but here are some great side pairings:
Garlic bread – The perfect companion for scooping up extra sauce.
Caesar salad – A crisp, fresh contrast to the rich lasagna.
Roasted vegetables – Try zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
A glass of red wine – Pairs beautifully with the deep flavors of the sauce.Pro Tips for the Best Lasagna
Let the sauce simmer – A long cook time develops deeper flavors.
Use quality cheese – Fresh mozzarella and real Parmesan make a huge difference.
Prevent runny lasagna – Let it rest before cutting to allow the layers to set.
Customize the filling – Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or extra herbs for variation.
Make it ahead – Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, then bake when ready.How to Store & Reheat Lasagna
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
Unbaked: Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Baked: Freeze portions in airtight containers and reheat as needed.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 20–30 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals.Variations & Customizations
Vegetarian Lasagna – Swap meat for roasted eggplant, mushrooms, or spinach.
Spicy Lasagna – Add red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage for a kick.
Cheesy Lasagna – Add an extra layer of mozzarella between the noodles.
Gluten-Free Lasagna – Use gluten-free noodles or replace with zucchini slices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use oven-ready lasagna noodles?
Yes! They save time and absorb flavor, but make sure there’s enough sauce to keep them soft.
Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?
Yes! Use an equal amount of blended cottage cheese for a similar texture.
Can I make this lasagna in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead, then bake when ready.
How do I keep lasagna from falling apart?
Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing to help the layers set.
Final Thoughts
This Best Lasagna Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich flavors, creamy cheese, and tender pasta. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, special occasion, or meal prep, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
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More Comfort Food Classics to Try
Homemade Baked Ziti
Cheesy Stuffed Shells
Classic Chicken ParmesanGet ready for a warm, cheesy bite of Italian perfection—this lasagna is calling your name!