A delicious homemade lasagna with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella cheese, served in a rustic baking dish, garnished with fresh parsley. A side of garlic bread and a green salad accompany the dish on a wooden table.

Classic Homemade Lasagna Recipe: A Family Favorite

by

Lasagna is one of those comforting dishes that brings people together around the dinner table. This classic homemade lasagna recipe is packed with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese, creating the ultimate Italian-American dish. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it a convenient option for make-ahead meals. Read on to learn how to make the best lasagna from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Lasagna Recipe

Lasagna has a way of capturing hearts with its rich, hearty flavors. This traditional lasagna is a classic for a reason: it’s simple yet full of flavor, filling yet balanced. Here are a few key reasons this recipe shines:

  • Perfect for family gatherings: Lasagna is always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Freezer-friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time and freeze it for up to 3 months.
  • Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients to fit your preferences.
  • Leftover-friendly: Tastes even better the next day!

Key Ingredients for Classic Homemade Lasagna

The secret to an amazing lasagna lies in the ingredients. For this homemade lasagna recipe, you’ll need the following essentials:

For the Meat Sauce:

  • Ground beef and Italian sausage: A flavorful combination of meats that gives the sauce depth.
  • Onion and garlic: For aromatic flavors.
  • Tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste: These provide a rich, tomato base.
  • Dried Italian herbs: Think basil, oregano, and thyme, for that perfect Italian flavor.
  • Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

For the Cheese Layer:

  • Ricotta cheese: Creamy and smooth, it adds a luxurious texture.
  • Mozzarella: Melty and stretchy, mozzarella brings the cheesy goodness.
  • Parmesan: Adds a sharp, salty kick.

For the Pasta:

  • Lasagna noodles: You can use traditional or no-boil noodles.

Seasonings and Extras:

  • Egg: Helps bind the ricotta layer together.
  • Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh pop of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Homemade Lasagna

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce

Begin by warming a large pan over medium heat. Incorporate the ground beef and Italian sausage, crumbling them as they cook. Once browned, remove excess fat and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Next, stir in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, and dried Italian herbs. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook on low heat for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles

As the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Mix until smooth and set aside.

4. Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Now comes the fun part: assembling the lasagna!

  • First layer: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Second layer: Lay down a single layer of cooked lasagna noodles.
  • Third layer: Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella.
  • Fourth layer: Spoon a layer of meat sauce over the cheese.
  • Repeat this process until you have 3-4 layers, ending with a final layer of meat sauce and a thick topping of mozzarella.

5. Bake the Lasagna

Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil, making sure to tent it slightly to prevent the cheese from sticking. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Allow the lasagna to cool for roughly 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set, making it simpler to cut and serve.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Lasagna

  1. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs, quality cheese, and good tomatoes make all the difference.
  2. Let it rest: After baking, give the lasagna time to cool slightly. This makes it easier to cut and helps the layers hold together.
  3. Make ahead: You can prepare the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking. This actually improves the flavor.
  4. Freezing tips: If freezing, cool the lasagna completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes, covered with foil.

Variations on Classic Lasagna

While this recipe sticks to the traditional meat lasagna, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are a few ideas for variations:

  • Vegetarian lasagna: Swap the meat for sautĂ©ed spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
  • Cheese lovers’ lasagna: Add layers of different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a super cheesy version.
  • Spicy lasagna: Spice things up by using hot Italian sausage and adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

FAQs about Classic Homemade Lasagna

How do I keep my lasagna from getting watery?

Watery lasagna can be caused by overcooked noodles or too much sauce. Be sure to drain your noodles well after cooking and simmer your sauce until it thickens. You can also let the lasagna rest after baking to allow any extra moisture to settle.

Can I use no-boil noodles?

Yes, no-boil noodles can be a convenient option for lasagna. Just make sure you add a little extra sauce to ensure they cook properly while baking.

How long can I keep leftover lasagna?

You can store leftover lasagna in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 4g

This classic homemade lasagna recipe combines layers of savory meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender noodles to create a dish that is loved by all. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a dinner party, this lasagna is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

Leave a Comment