Homemade Classic Lasagna is one of the most beloved comfort foods, combining layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and gooey melted cheese. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. The beauty of lasagna lies in its balance—savory meat and tomato sauce paired with creamy layers, all baked together until golden and bubbling.
This recipe celebrates tradition while remaining approachable. With careful layering and slow baking, you create a dish that is both rustic and elegant. Each slice reveals a beautiful cross-section of pasta, sauce, and cheese, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
INGREDIENTS:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups tomato sauce (or marinara)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk (for béchamel sauce)
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
INSTRUCTION:
- Prepare the noodles: Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the meat sauce: In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in a little oil until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes to develop flavor.
- Prepare the béchamel sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Mix the ricotta layer: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble the lasagna:
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place a layer of noodles over the sauce.
- Spread ricotta mixture evenly over noodles.
- Add a layer of béchamel sauce, followed by meat sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella on top.
- Bake the dish: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Rest and serve: Allow lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
SERVINGS:
This recipe yields 8 servings, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings.
NOTE:
- Flavor balance: The combination of tomato-based meat sauce and creamy béchamel creates a rich, layered flavor.
- Texture tip: Cooking noodles al dente ensures they hold their shape during baking.
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
- Presentation: Slice carefully to reveal the layers. Serve with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Mindful preparation: Allowing the lasagna to rest before serving helps the layers set, making it easier to cut neat portions.
- Serving ritual: Share at the table, letting the aroma and warmth bring people together.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Classic Lasagna is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of comfort, tradition, and togetherness. With its rich layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese, it delivers satisfaction in every bite. The process of preparing and assembling the dish is as rewarding as enjoying it, turning simple ingredients into a masterpiece.
Whether served at a family dinner, a festive gathering, or a quiet evening at home, lasagna embodies the joy of cooking and sharing. Its golden crust and flavorful layers make it a timeless favorite that will always have a place at the table.