My Famous Lasagna Recipe

This Famous Lasagna Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, featuring layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese.

Perfectly seasoned and baked to perfection, it’s the ultimate comfort food for family dinners, special occasions, or anytime you crave something hearty and delicious.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or saucepan
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula or spoon
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients Overview

• Ground Beef and Italian Sausage: The flavorful foundation for a hearty meat sauce.
• Tomato Sauce and Paste: These create the rich, savory base for the lasagna.
• Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess to the cheese layer.
• Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese: For that melty, cheesy goodness.
• Lasagna Noodles: Traditional or no-boil noodles work equally well.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce

• In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound of Italian sausage over medium heat until browned.
• Add 1 small diced onion and 2 cloves minced garlic, cooking until softened.
• Stir in:
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

• In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or 1 tablespoon dried parsley

3. Cook the Noodles (if not using no-boil)

• Boil lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and lay flat on a clean surface.

4. Assemble the Lasagna

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Layer as follows:
  1. Lasagna noodles
  2. Ricotta cheese mixture
  3. Meat sauce
  4. Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Repeat the layers, ending with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top.

5. Bake the Lasagna

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil (spray the underside with nonstick spray to prevent sticking).
• Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

6. Rest and Serve

• Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.

Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Add Vegetables: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions to the layers.
• Use Fresh Herbs: For a burst of flavor, garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Pair lasagna with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze lasagna?
Yes! Freeze the unbaked lasagna tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an additional 20-30 minutes to the cooking time.

How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables or a plant-based meat alternative.

Ingredients

• Meat Sauce:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Cheese Mixture:
  • 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• Other Ingredients:
  • 9-12 lasagna noodles
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the meat sauce by browning ground beef and sausage, adding onion, garlic, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
3. Mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, and parsley in a bowl.
4. Layer cooked noodles, cheese mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella in a 9×13-inch pan. Repeat layers.
5. Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncovered for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

This Famous Lasagna Recipe is a family favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!