Lasagna is a timeless comfort food loved by people across the globe, and nothing compares to the taste and satisfaction of a classic homemade version. This hearty dish combines tender lasagna noodles with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, melty mozzarella, and a perfect blend of Italian herbs.
Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting a special gathering, this classic lasagna recipe never fails to impress. It’s a dish that brings warmth to your kitchen and smiles to your table. The slow-simmered meat sauce is the heart of the recipe, while the combination of cheeses creates a creamy, gooey texture that balances the rich tomato base. This recipe is easy to follow and results in a deeply flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans (6 oz each) tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, cook the ground beef, sausage, and chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Mix well and bring to a simmer.
Add sugar, basil, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly and let the sauce simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes to develop flavor, stirring occasionally.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with the beaten egg, a bit of parsley, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, start by spreading 1 cup of the meat sauce on the bottom of the pan.
Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a portion of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layers: sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan until all ingredients are used. Finish with a generous layer of meat sauce and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese to prevent sticking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly crisp.
Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving much easier.
Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a full Italian-style meal.