Homemade Lasagna Recipe
Introduction
Homemade lasagna is a comforting classic that brings family and friends together with its rich layers of meat, sauce, and melted cheese. This recipe is simple yet satisfying, perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients
- Lasagna noodles
- Ground meat
- Tomato sauce
- Cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven and prepare the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions, then cook the ground meat until browned.
- Step 2: In a baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce, then add a layer of noodles, followed by the cooked meat and a generous sprinkle of cheese. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used.
- Step 3: Cover the dish with foil and bake until the lasagna is bubbly and the cheese is melted, typically about 30-40 minutes.
- Step 4: Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add herbs like basil or oregano to the tomato sauce before layering.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a mix of vegetables for a lighter version.
- Use a blend of mozzarella and ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.
Storage
Store leftover lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for quicker meals.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld even more.
Do I need to boil the noodles before baking?
It depends on the type of noodles you use. Traditional lasagna noodles should be boiled first, but some no-boil noodles can be used directly in the layering process.
PrintHomemade Lasagna Recipe
This homemade lasagna recipe features layers of tender lasagna noodles, savory ground meat, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a classic Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions, delivering comforting flavors and hearty satisfaction.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles
- 12 lasagna noodles
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking, then set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat, then stir in tomato sauce, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Layer the Lasagna: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Lay down a layer of noodles, followed by more meat sauce and dollops of ricotta cheese. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat these layers twice more, finishing with a generous topping of cheese.
- Bake the Lasagna: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes out of the oven to set before slicing and serving. This helps the layers hold together and enhances the flavors.
Notes
- For easier slicing, let the lasagna cool slightly before cutting.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for variation.
- Adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can increase nutrition and add flavor.
- Use no-boil noodles to save prep time, but adjust layering accordingly.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Keywords: homemade lasagna, baked pasta, Italian lasagna, comfort food, layered pasta dish
