Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Few dishes are as universally loved as lasagna. This Classic Cheesy Lasagna recipe combines tender lasagna noodles, savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and a creamy blend of cheeses, creating layers of flavor that make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or indulging in leftovers, this lasagna is the ultimate comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Cheesy Lasagna
This lasagna recipe is a must-try for anyone who enjoys hearty, flavorful Italian-inspired meals. Here’s why it stands out:
- Rich and Cheesy Layers: A combination of ricotta, cottage cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella ensures every bite is creamy and satisfying.
- Savory and Flavorful: Seasoned ground beef and marinara sauce provide a robust, savory base.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe makes a large portion, perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients or add vegetables to suit your preferences.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make it ahead of time and freeze for a convenient, delicious meal later.
Why This Recipe Works
This lasagna balances flavors and textures through carefully layered ingredients. Browning the ground beef with onions and garlic creates a savory base, while simmering it in marinara sauce enhances its depth of flavor. The ricotta and cottage cheese mixture adds creaminess and a slight tang, complementing the layers of pasta and meat sauce. A topping of cheddar and mozzarella cheese ensures a golden, bubbly finish that’s both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
To make this cheesy lasagna, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained: The base for layering this classic dish.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds hearty flavor and texture.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Enhances the savory base with aromatic depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a robust flavor to the meat sauce.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: A rich, tangy sauce that ties the layers together.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and richness.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Adds a tangy, creamy layer to the lasagna.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Provides a sharp, cheesy flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Ensures a gooey, melted topping.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a vibrant finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Classic Cheesy Lasagna
Follow these simple steps to create a lasagna that’s hearty, cheesy, and delicious:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the lasagna doesn’t stick.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the marinara sauce, reduce the heat, and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to develop its flavors.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended. This creamy layer will add richness to your lasagna.
4. Assemble the Lasagna
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Layer with some of the cheese mixture, followed by another layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of noodles on top.
5. Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top layer. This will create a bubbly, golden crust when baked.
6. Bake the Lasagna
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let It Rest and Garnish
Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Lasagna
- Cook Noodles Al Dente: Slightly undercook the noodles so they hold their shape during baking.
- Let It Rest: Allow the lasagna to rest after baking to prevent it from falling apart when sliced.
- Customize the Layers: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use High-Quality Marinara Sauce: Opt for a flavorful, high-quality marinara sauce to elevate the dish.
- Don’t Overstuff: Keep layers even to ensure the lasagna cooks evenly.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy lasagna pairs wonderfully with classic Italian sides and accompaniments for a complete meal:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the lasagna.
- Steamed Vegetables: Add steamed or roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a nutritious side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the lasagna, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.
Q: Can I freeze lasagna?
A: Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna, but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q: Can I substitute the ground beef?
A: Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage are great alternatives to ground beef.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Definitely! Swap cheddar for Gruyère or add Parmesan for extra flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
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Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add layers of roasted vegetables or a meat substitute.
Q: What’s the best way to prevent the cheese from burning?
A: Cover the lasagna with foil during the first half of baking and uncover it for the last 10-15 minutes to brown the cheese.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Cheesy Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together layers of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese in a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this lasagna is guaranteed to impress.
Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal. With its rich flavors and gooey, cheesy topping, this lasagna is a dish you’ll turn to again and again. Try it today and discover why this classic recipe is a timeless favorite!