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+ servings

Classic Italian Lasagna

This comforting lasagna layers rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and bubbling mozzarella, making it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or cozy weeknights.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Serving Size 8 servings

Ingredients

For the noodles

  • 12 pieces lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil) No-boil noodles can skip the boiling step; increase baking time by about 10 minutes.

For the meat sauce

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20) Provides good flavor.
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, casing removed) Can be substituted with a vegetarian option.
  • 4 cups marinara sauce Homemade or quality store-bought.

For the cheese filling

  • 3 cups ricotta cheese For a lighter version, swap half with cottage cheese.
  • 1 large egg Helps bind the cheese mixture.
  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Reserve some for topping.
  • 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese For topping.
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • to taste Salt and black pepper Season to taste.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add lasagna noodles and cook until al dente per package directions. Drain and lay flat to prevent sticking.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking up the meat, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper.
  • In a medium bowl, stir together ricotta, the egg, oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.

Assembly and Baking

  • Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Arrange 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce in a single layer. Spread half the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Spoon half the meat mixture over the ricotta, then add a layer of marinara and sprinkle with 1 1/3 cups mozzarella.
  • Repeat with another layer: noodles, remaining ricotta, remaining meat, more sauce, and another 1 1/3 cups mozzarella.
  • Finish with a final layer of noodles, the remaining marinara sauce, the remaining mozzarella, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan.
  • Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Finishing Up

  • Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before cutting to allow the layers to set.

Notes

Serve slices with a green salad or garlic bread. Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.