CLASSIC LASAGNA RECIPE: THE ULTIMATE COMFORT FOOD

Lasagna is a timeless dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. With layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food. This recipe takes you step-by-step through making the perfect Classic Lasagna, featuring a hearty combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and a decadent ricotta cheese layer.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or planning leftovers for the week, this dish is always a hit. Let’s dive into the full recipe, along with helpful tips, variations, and FAQs to ensure your lasagna turns out absolutely perfect every time.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS LASAGNA RECIPE

• Rich and Hearty: Layers of meat, cheese, and pasta create a satisfying, indulgent meal.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, this recipe is perfect for gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and bake when needed.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, swap proteins, or experiment with different cheeses.
• Leftovers That Shine: Lasagna tastes even better the next day!

INGREDIENT BREAKDOWN AND WHY THEY WORK

Lasagna Noodles (12, cooked)

• The backbone of the dish, lasagna noodles create the structure for layering the meat and cheese. Cook them al dente to prevent sogginess during baking.

Ground Beef (1 lb) and Italian Sausage (1/2 lb)

• This combo creates a flavorful and hearty meat sauce. The sausage adds extra seasoning and richness.

Marinara Sauce (1 jar, 24 oz)

• A good-quality marinara sauce provides the tomato base for the meat sauce. Choose your favorite brand or use homemade sauce.

Onion (1 small, diced) and Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

• Aromatic vegetables that form the foundation of the meat sauce, adding depth and flavor.

Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon)

• A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme enhances the sauce with classic Italian flavors.

Ricotta Cheese (15 oz container)

• The creamy layer that balances the richness of the meat sauce. Ricotta creates a smooth, cheesy texture in every bite.

Egg (1)

• Helps bind the ricotta mixture, ensuring it holds its shape during baking.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups)

• The melty, gooey cheese that tops each layer and gives the lasagna its signature stretchy cheese pull.

Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup)

• Adds sharp, salty flavor and a golden finish to the top layer.

STEP-BY-STEP DIRECTIONS: HOW TO MAKE CLASSIC LASAGNA

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Dish

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light layer of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage, 1 diced onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves.
• Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 8-10 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
• Stir in 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
• Simmer the sauce over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

• In a medium bowl, combine 15 oz ricotta cheese, 1 egg, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

• Cook 12 lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cool water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce (about 1/2 cup) on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Lay 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
3. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles.
4. Top with 1/3 of the meat sauce and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Repeat the layers two more times (noodles, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella), ending with a layer of mozzarella and the remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake the Lasagna

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil (spray the underside with cooking spray to prevent sticking).
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 7: Let It Rest

• Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

• Cut the lasagna into squares and serve warm. Pair with garlic bread, a side salad, or your favorite Italian sides.

TIPS FOR THE BEST LASAGNA

1. Cook Noodles Al Dente
   • Slightly undercook the lasagna noodles so they don’t become mushy during baking.
2. Drain the Meat Well
   • Removing excess grease ensures the meat sauce isn’t overly oily.
3. Spread Even Layers
   • Distribute the meat sauce, ricotta, and cheese evenly across each layer for balanced flavor and texture.
4. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
   • Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Shred your own mozzarella and Parmesan for the best results.
5. Let It Rest Before Slicing
   • Allowing the lasagna to cool slightly helps the layers set and prevents it from falling apart when sliced.

VARIATIONS TO TRY

1. Vegetarian Lasagna
   • Swap the meat for sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
2. White Lasagna
   • Use Alfredo sauce instead of marinara and add chicken or spinach for a creamy twist.
3. Spicy Lasagna
   • Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.
4. Gluten-Free Lasagna
   • Substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free noodles or thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant.
5. Cheesy Lasagna
   • Add layers of provolone or fontina cheese for an extra-cheesy lasagna.
6. Pesto Lasagna
   • Add a thin layer of basil pesto between the noodles for a fresh, herby flavor.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH LASAGNA

Pair your lasagna with sides for a complete Italian-inspired meal:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp greens with a tangy dressing balance the richness of the lasagna.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy side.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add a refreshing touch.
• Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cured meats, and marinated vegetables complements the meal beautifully.

HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT LASAGNA

Storage

• Cover leftover lasagna tightly with aluminum foil or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Reheating

• Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Freezing

• Assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

FAQS ABOUT CLASSIC LASAGNA

1. Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the lasagna and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

2. Do I have to cook the noodles?

If using no-boil lasagna noodles, skip the boiling step and assemble the lasagna as directed. Add an extra 1/4 cup of water to the sauce to ensure the noodles cook properly.

3. Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?

Yes! Cottage cheese is a budget-friendly alternative to ricotta. Blend it for a smoother texture if desired.

4. How do I prevent lasagna from being watery?

Drain excess grease from the meat and pat the noodles dry after boiling. Also, allow the lasagna to rest before slicing to let the

layers set.

CONCLUSION

This Classic Lasagna Recipe is the perfect dish to bring people together over a warm, hearty meal. With its rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta layer, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a timeless favorite that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion, prepping it ahead of time, or enjoying leftovers the next day, this lasagna is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Pair it with your favorite sides, customize it to your liking, and savor every bite of this delicious Italian classic.

Happy cooking! 😊

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