Classic Lasagna Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the rich, cheesy, layered perfection of a classic lasagna. It’s warm, satisfying, and steeped in tradition. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a holiday gathering, or meal prepping for the week ahead, lasagna always delivers.

This version of the timeless Italian-American classic features layers of tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, tangy marinara sauce, and a creamy ricotta filling, all topped with a gooey blanket of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Classic Lasagna

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about lasagna. Maybe it’s the aroma of bubbling sauce and melted cheese, or maybe it’s the way it brings people together around the dinner table. Whatever the reason, this dish is:

Easy to make: With simple ingredients and clear layers, even beginner cooks can master it.

Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when ready to eat.

Customizable: Add veggies, switch up the protein, or adjust the cheeses.

Freezer-friendly: Make a double batch and freeze one for a busy weeknight.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a classic lasagna that’s both flavorful and filling:

Pasta

12 lasagna noodles 🍝
Classic, sturdy lasagna noodles provide the foundation of each layer.

Meat Sauce

1 lb ground beef 🥩
Use lean ground beef for less grease, or substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage.

1 jar marinara sauce 🍅
Choose a good-quality marinara or make your own for extra flavor.

1 tbsp olive oil 🫒
For browning the meat and adding depth of flavor.

1/2 tsp garlic powder 🧄
Adds aroma and seasoning.

1/2 tsp dried oregano 🌿
Brings a classic Italian herb flavor.

Salt & pepper to taste 🧂

Cheese Filling

2 cups ricotta cheese 🧀
The creamy layer that balances the robust meat sauce.

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
For sharp, nutty flavor in the cheese filling.

1 egg 🥚
Helps bind the cheese mixture together.

Cheese Topping

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
Melty, stringy, cheesy goodness to top it all off.

Garnish

Fresh parsley 🌿
Adds color and a burst of freshness.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Classic Lasagna – Step-by-Step

Let’s walk through each part of building the perfect lasagna:

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set them aside.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Once the beef is fully cooked, stir in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavor.

3. Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and one egg. Stir until smooth and well mixed. This will form the creamy, rich cheese layer in your lasagna.

4. Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Then begin layering:

A layer of lasagna noodles (usually 3–4 noodles across)

A layer of the ricotta cheese mixture

A layer of meat sauce

A sprinkle of shredded mozzarella

Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a final layer of noodles, meat sauce, and a generous topping of mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

6. Rest & Serve

Once baked, let the lasagna sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve neat portions. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

💡 Lasagna Tips & Tricks

Don’t overcook the noodles: Slightly undercooked noodles hold up better during baking.

Use whole-milk cheeses: They melt creamier and taste richer than part-skim.

Add veggies: Try layering in sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a nutritional boost.

Use fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano on top adds brightness and flavor.

Rest is key: Lasagna that’s allowed to rest cuts more cleanly and tastes better.

🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead

To Make Ahead:
Assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10 extra minutes to the bake time if starting from cold.

To Freeze:
Wrap the assembled (unbaked) lasagna tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F, covered, for 60–70 minutes, then uncover for 15 more.

To Store Leftovers:
Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout.

🍽️ What to Serve with Classic Lasagna

Complete your meal with any of these complementary sides:

Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks

Caesar salad or simple mixed greens

Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans

A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot

📋 Final Thoughts

This Classic Lasagna Recipe is more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of flavor, comfort, and togetherness. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, on a special occasion, or just for a cozy dinner at home, it never fails to satisfy.

Its layers of pasta, seasoned beef, rich ricotta, and gooey cheese create the perfect bite every time. And with how easy it is to customize or prep ahead, this lasagna is sure to become one of your most treasured go-to recipes.

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