Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 04, 2025

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Easy Classic Lasagna Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Lasagna, a culinary masterpiece, often intimidates home cooks. The layers, the sauces, the timing – it all seems overwhelming. But fear not! This easy classic lasagna recipe breaks down the process into simple, manageable steps, guaranteeing a delicious, restaurant-quality dish even for beginners. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this crowd-pleasing favorite!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

• For the Meat Sauce:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage)
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 15 ounces tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• For the Cheese Filling:
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Other Ingredients:
  • 9 lasagna noodles (oven-ready is easiest!)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Let's get cooking! This recipe is designed for simplicity and delicious results.

1. Making the Meat Sauce:

This is the heart of your lasagna. A flavorful meat sauce elevates the entire dish.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor.

2. Preparing the Cheese Filling:

This creamy mixture adds a delightful contrast to the savory meat sauce.

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assembling the Lasagna:

Now for the layering magic! This is where your culinary creativity shines.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
3. Top with a layer of lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping if necessary.
4. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
5. Top with another layer of meat sauce.
6. Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta cheese, meat sauce.
7. Finish with a final layer of noodles and top generously with mozzarella cheese.

4. Baking the Lasagna:

The final step to lasagna perfection!

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
2. Bake for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.
4. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Lasagna Success:

• No-boil noodles: Using oven-ready lasagna noodles significantly reduces prep time.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a little heat.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or vegetables for a vegetarian lasagna.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and bake it the next day. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade lasagna! This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and guarantees a satisfying and flavorful meal every time. Remember to share your culinary creations with us! #lasagna #easyrecipe #comfortfood #italianfood #homemade #dinnerideas