Easy Homemade Lasagna is a classic dish that brings layers of gooey cheese, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta right to your table. It’s filled with tasty ground meat, melted mozzarella, and a creamy ricotta mixture that all bake together into a comforting, hearty meal. This recipe breaks everything down into simple steps, making it a great choice for both beginners and anyone craving a home-cooked Italian favorite.
When I make lasagna, I love how the kitchen fills with that warm, inviting smell of bubbling cheese and herbs. One of my favorite tips is to let the lasagna rest for a few minutes after baking—it makes slicing much easier and lets the flavors set beautifully. Plus, it’s a nice moment to sit back and anticipate the delicious first bite.
I often serve this with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread to balance out all that cheesy goodness. It’s a dish that brings everyone together around the table and always sparks happy memories. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this easy homemade lasagna is sure to be a hit.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna noodles: You can use regular noodles if you like to boil them first, or no-boil noodles to save time. Just make sure there’s enough sauce to cook them fully in the oven. I often choose no-boil for ease.
Ground beef: This adds rich flavor and texture. For a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. Plant-based crumbles also work well for a vegetarian twist.
Ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese gives lasagna its classic richness. You could substitute cottage cheese for a lighter version, but ricotta will be creamier and smoother.
Mozzarella and Parmesan: Mozzarella melts beautifully, while Parmesan adds a nice salty topping. If you want a sharper flavor, use Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan.
Marinara sauce: A good quality jarred sauce works fine, or you can use homemade tomato sauce for extra freshness. Feel free to add extra herbs or crushed red pepper for more flavor.
How Can You Layer Lasagna for Best Results?
Layering is key for that classic lasagna texture and flavor. Here’s what works best:
- Start with sauce: A thin layer on the bottom prevents noodles from sticking and helps the lasagna cook evenly.
- Noodles next: Arrange them in a flat layer without overlapping too much to ensure even cooking.
- Spread the ricotta mixture: Apply evenly so you get creamy bites in every forkful.
- Add mozzarella: Sprinkle to help hold the layers together and give a lovely melt.
- Top with meat sauce: Add another layer of sauce to keep everything moist.
- Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust.
Also, covering the dish with foil while baking stops the top from burning while allowing everything to cook through. Removing it at the end lets the cheese brown nicely.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I love it because it fits the lasagna layers perfectly and bakes evenly.
- Large pot – for boiling noodles, making sure they cook tender without sticking.
- Sauté pan or skillet – to cook the ground beef and garlic; it’s the easiest way to get browning and flavor.
- Mixing bowls – for blending ricotta with egg and seasonings, making layers smooth.
- Aluminum foil – to cover the dish during baking, keeping it moist and preventing burning.
- Optional: Oven mitts and a baking rack – for safe handling and even cooling of the hot lasagna.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner option. It’s great if you prefer a different flavor or diet needs.
- Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers in each layer for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Mix in herbs like fresh basil or oregano into the ricotta or sauce for a fresh, aromatic twist.
- Use different cheeses such as provolone or fontina for unique flavors or a more gooey texture.
Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 9 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz/680g) marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy lasagna takes about 15 minutes to prep, about 25 minutes to bake covered, plus an additional 20 minutes uncovered to get that bubbly, golden top. Don’t forget to let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. So overall, plan about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Noodles and Sauce:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until they are just tender (al dente). Drain them well and set aside.
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
2. Mix the Ricotta Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and egg until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will add creamy layers to your lasagna.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
Spread a small layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Then place 3 cooked noodles on top, side by side.
Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles.
Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese over the ricotta.
Spread another portion of the meat sauce over the cheese.
Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a final layer of meat sauce topped with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake and Serve:
Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese. Bake in your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 20 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Once done, take the lasagna out and let it rest for 10-15 minutes to set before slicing.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious homemade lasagna!
Can I Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! No-boil noodles save time and work great in this recipe. Just be sure your sauce is a bit saucier to fully cook the noodles during baking.
Can I Make Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the lasagna, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Substitute Ricotta Cheese?
You can swap ricotta for cottage cheese if needed, though the texture will be slightly different. For a creamier option, try mixing ricotta with a little cream cheese.
