Ultimate Homemade Lasagna Recipe

There’s a reason why “Nothing Beats Good Lasagna” is a timeless classic that brings families together at the dinner table. The rich layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella create a dish that feels like a warm hug on even the busiest days. As you pull that bubbling lasagna out of the oven, the comforting aroma fills the kitchen, signaling that a delicious meal is about to be enjoyed by all.

One of the most special touches in this lasagna recipe is the mixture of ricotta cheese with fresh parsley, a step that adds a burst of flavor and nostalgia to the dish. It’s moments like these that make cooking feel like a cherished tradition passed down through generations. Whether it’s a regular weeknight or a special occasion, this lasagna has the power to turn any day around, just like how it brightens up my daughter’s mood with every bite.

With the option to customize ingredients like using ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian twist, this lasagna recipe is versatile and accommodating to different preferences. And don’t forget to pair it with a side salad or roasted veggies to complete the meal. So, gather your loved ones around the table, slice into this delightful lasagna, and create new memories with a dish that truly stands the test of time.

Quick Benefits

• Blending beef and pork creates a richer, more flavorful meat sauce for the lasagna.
• Resting allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and keeping each layer intact.
• Ricotta cheese gives a creamier, more traditional texture compared to cottage cheese.
• Preparing lasagna ahead and refrigerating before baking ensures the best texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Homemade Lasagna Recipe Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful Meat Sauce: Blending beef and pork creates a deliciously rich and flavorful meat sauce that adds depth to the lasagna.
• Creamy and Indulgent: The combination of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and nutty Parmesan cheeses provides a luxurious and indulgent texture to the dish.
• Nostalgic and Heartwarming: Mixing the ricotta with parsley brings back nostalgic memories, making this meal not just delicious but also heartwarming.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to four days, and individual portions can be wrapped and frozen for quick and easy future meals.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable to dietary preferences by swapping meat for turkey or chicken, lentils for a vegetarian version, or using cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a different texture.
• Classic and Timeless: With roots dating back centuries, lasagna is a classic dish that appeals to all generations and never goes out of style.
• Perfect Pairings: Serve with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Squeezing lemon over greens adds a touch of brightness to complement the rich flavors.

Ingredients for Ultimate Homemade Lasagna Recipe

Meat Sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 400 grams canned tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 450 grams ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork
• 790 grams canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Ricotta Mixture

• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 425 grams ricotta cheese
• 25 grams grated Parmesan cheese

Assembly

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 50 grams grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
• 400 grams shredded mozzarella cheese

Pro Tips for Ultimate Homemade Lasagna Recipe

For a richer and more flavorful meat sauce, blend beef and pork together when making the lasagna. This combination adds depth to the dish and is sure to impress your family and friends.

After assembling the lasagna, allow it to rest before serving. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and ensuring each layer stays intact when serving.

While cottage cheese can be used as a substitute, using ricotta cheese gives the lasagna a creamier and more traditional texture. Make sure to drain the ricotta well for the best results in your dish.

How to Make Ultimate Homemade Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until beef is browned, onion softens, and excess fat is drained.

Step 2: Simmer Tomato Mixture

Combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper in the pot. Simmer over low heat for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Combine Ricotta Mixture

Combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a medium bowl until well mixed.

Step 4: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 190°C.

Step 5: Layer Lasagna Components

1. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a 23×33 cm baking dish. Place 3 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture and sprinkle one-third of the mozzarella on top. Add another layer of meat sauce. Repeat this process twice, finishing with a final layer of meat sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 6: Bake

Cover a baking dish with cooking spray-coated aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 25 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the lasagna sit for 10–15 minutes before cutting and serving hot.

Storage Tips

Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to cover it well to maintain moisture and flavor. The lasagna’s taste actually deepens overnight, enhancing its overall flavors. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven for quick and convenient meals.

If you have extra lasagna or want to prepare ahead of time, this dish also freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a zip-top bag. Thaw the lasagna in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Whether you choose to heat it in the oven or microwave, ensure it is heated through before serving. This make-ahead option allows for a delicious and stress-free meal whenever you desire.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter option, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef in this lasagna recipe. These alternatives can provide a healthier twist without compromising on flavor.

For a vegetarian version, cooked lentils or a vegan meat alternative can be used as a substitute for the ground beef. Stir them into the tomato sauce to maintain the heartiness of the dish while catering to different dietary preferences.

While cottage cheese can be used as a replacement for ricotta, make sure to drain it well and blend it for a smoother texture. This substitution can still provide a creamy element to the lasagna if you don’t have ricotta on hand.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this classic ground beef lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a big green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette for a complete meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. For a lighter option, swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken, or try a vegetarian version using lentils or a vegan meat alternative in the sauce. To add a fresh touch, squeeze a bit of lemon over the greens to contrast the richness of the cheese and sauce, creating a well-balanced dining experience that will surely become a family favorite.

For a cozy and intimate gathering, serve individual slices of leftover lasagna reheated in the oven with a side of simple roasted vegetables like zucchini or broccoli. The flavors deepen and meld overnight, making each bite more delicious than the last. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to your preferences, lasagna is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to any table, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones on any occasion.

FAQs for Ultimate Homemade Lasagna Recipe

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for the lasagna?

Yes, you can use cottage cheese as a substitute for ricotta in this recipe. However, make sure to drain the cottage cheese well and blend it for a smoother texture to mimic the creaminess of ricotta.

Why is it important to rest the lasagna before serving?

Resting the lasagna allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and keeping each layer intact. It also helps the flavors meld together for a more delicious eating experience.

How should I cook the lasagna noodles to prevent sticking?

Stir the noodles while cooking and make sure to drain them well. Adding a little olive oil to the water can also help prevent the noodles from sticking together.

Can I assemble the lasagna ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it. However, it is recommended to bake it just before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor of the dish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nothing Beats Good Lasagna truly embodies the essence of comfort food that brings loved ones together. The nostalgia and warmth that this classic dish evokes are simply unbeatable. Whether you’re recreating a cherished family recipe or starting your own tradition, lasagna has a way of creating lasting memories around the dinner table.

Remember, with a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a lasagna that will surely become a staple in your home. So, the next time you’re in need of a hearty and satisfying meal, look no further than a steaming hot plate of Nothing Beats Good Lasagna. Enjoy the process of cooking and savoring each bite, because good food is meant to be shared and celebrated.