This lasagna is the ultimate comfort dish—layered with tender pasta sheets, a robust meat sauce simmered in tomatoes and herbs, and a creamy blend of cheeses that melts into every bite. The top is golden and bubbling, finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for brightness. Whether served at a family dinner, a community gathering, or a celebratory feast, this lasagna is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s deeply satisfying, easy to make ahead, and adaptable for gluten-free, vegetarian, or wellness-focused versions.
🧂 INGREDIENTS:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 500g ground beef (or lamb, turkey, or plant-based mince)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp dried parsley or fresh chopped herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 9–12 lasagna sheets (pre-cooked or oven-ready)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Extra Parmesan for topping
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Wellness Tip: Use whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna sheets for added fiber or dietary needs. Swap ricotta with blended tofu for a lighter, protein-rich version.
👨🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes until thickened and flavorful.
Flavor Note: Letting the sauce simmer deepens the flavor and reduces excess moisture, preventing soggy lasagna.
2. Mix the Cheese Filling
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
Texture Tip: The egg helps bind the cheese layer and adds richness.
3. Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Layer lasagna sheets over the sauce.
- Add a layer of cheese mixture, followed by meat sauce, then mozzarella.
- Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Assembly Tip: Press layers gently to compact and ensure even baking.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until top is golden and bubbling.
- Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Serving Tip: Resting allows layers to set and makes slicing cleaner.
5. Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
🌱 OPTIONAL ADAPTATIONS:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or zucchini.
- Spiced Variation: Add cumin, coriander, or garam masala for a South Asian twist.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cheeses and omit egg.