Classic Lasagna Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Few dishes are as comforting and satisfying as a classic homemade lasagna. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and perfectly melted mozzarella, this dish is a staple in Italian cuisine and a favorite for family dinners.

Making lasagna from scratch may seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and techniques, it’s easier than you think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions to help you make the best lasagna ever—cheesy, hearty, and flavorful.

Let’s get started!

Why This is the Best Classic Lasagna Recipe

✔ Authentic Italian flavors – A homemade sauce that simmers to perfection.
✔ Perfectly balanced layers – A combination of meat, ricotta, and cheese in every bite.
✔ No-soggy noodles – Tips to prevent watery lasagna.
✔ Make-ahead friendly – Prepare in advance for stress-free meals.

This recipe guarantees a rich, cheesy, and flavorful lasagna that your family and friends will love.

Essential Ingredients

For the most flavorful and hearty lasagna, you’ll need:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ lb Italian sausage (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• ½ cup red wine (optional, but enhances flavor)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp salt & black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

For the Cheese Filling:

• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp dried parsley

For the Pasta:

• 12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (to prevent sticking)

How to Make the Best Meat Sauce

A rich, slow-simmered meat sauce is what gives lasagna its signature flavor.

1. Brown the meat: In a large pot, cook ground beef and sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
3. Add tomatoes & wine: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and red wine.
4. Season: Add sugar, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
5. Simmer: Let the sauce cook uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

How to Layer Lasagna for the Perfect Texture

Layering lasagna properly ensures every bite is balanced. Follow this order:

1. Layer 1: Spread 1 cup of meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Layer 2: Place a layer of cooked or no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce.
3. Layer 3: Spread a portion of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
4. Layer 4: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the ricotta.
5. Repeat: Continue layering in this order until all ingredients are used.
6. Final Layer: Top with a final layer of noodles, meat sauce, and extra cheese.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

• Boil lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
• Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

• Brown ground beef and sausage in a large pan.
• Add onions and garlic; cook until soft.
• Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and paste.
• Add red wine, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
• Simmer for 30-45 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

• In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, and parsley.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a baking dish, spread 1 cup meat sauce.
• Add a layer of noodles, then a layer of ricotta, and sprinkle mozzarella.
• Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
• Finish with sauce and cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake uncovered for 15 more minutes until golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

• Let lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Variations & Substitutions

• Make it vegetarian: Use sautéed mushrooms and spinach instead of meat.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles.
• Dairy-free alternative: Swap ricotta with cashew-based cheese and use dairy-free mozzarella.

What to Serve with Lasagna

Lasagna pairs well with:

• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
• Caesar salad – A fresh contrast to the rich dish.
• Roasted vegetables – A healthy and flavorful side.
• Red wine – A classic pairing with Italian pasta dishes.

Tips for the Best Lasagna Every Time

• Use fresh herbs for a more authentic flavor.
• Let lasagna rest before serving for cleaner slices.
• Avoid overcooking the noodles to prevent a mushy texture.
• Use a deep baking dish to avoid overflow.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Skipping the resting time – Lasagna needs time to set before slicing.
❌ Not draining excess fat – Can make the sauce greasy.
❌ Using too much ricotta – Can create a heavy, dense texture.

Conclusion

This classic lasagna recipe perfectly balances rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly baked layers. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Try this recipe and enjoy the best homemade lasagna ever!

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