World’s Best Lasagna Recipe
Introduction
Lasagna is a classic comfort food that brings together layers of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese. This recipe for the world’s best lasagna is simple to follow and perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 4 cups meat sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella and Parmesan blend recommended)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Layer 4 noodles on top of the sauce.
- Step 3: Spread one-third of the ricotta cheese evenly over the noodles, followed by one-third of the meat sauce and one cup of shredded cheese.
- Step 4: Repeat the layering two more times, ending with a generous layer of shredded cheese on top.
- Step 5: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 6: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add sautéed garlic and herbs like basil or oregano to your meat sauce.
- Substitute the meat sauce with a vegetable marinara for a vegetarian option.
- Use no-boil noodles to skip the initial cooking step and save time.
Storage
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake covered in foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze lasagna for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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. Bake it just before serving for the best results.
What type of cheese works best in lasagna?
A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan provides a creamy texture and rich flavor. Feel free to adjust the cheese types to your preference.
PrintWorld’s Best Lasagna Recipe
This World’s Best Lasagna recipe is a classic Italian-American comfort food favorite featuring layers of tender lasagna noodles, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and a blend of melted cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. It’s perfect as a hearty dinner for family gatherings or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles
- 12 lasagna noodles
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Make the meat sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare cheese mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the beaten egg and parsley, mixing until smooth.
- Assemble the lasagna: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Layer 4 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, sprinkle with one-third of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then cover with one-third of the meat sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with a cheese layer on top.
- Bake the lasagna: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before serving to set.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcook the noodles to avoid mushy layers.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for different flavors.
- For a richer taste, use a combination of mozzarella and provolone cheeses.
- Leftover lasagna keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheats nicely.
Keywords: lasagna, Italian, comfort food, baked pasta, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan
