Easy Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese
Lasagna, a classic Italian comfort food, is often perceived as a complicated dish. But fear not! This recipe simplifies the process, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and satisfying lasagna without spending hours in the kitchen. This easy lasagna recipe with ricotta cheese is perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. It's packed with flavor and guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it incredibly accessible. No special trips to gourmet stores are needed!
- Noodles: 9 lasagna noodles (oven-ready are easiest!)
- Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk for extra richness!)
- Eggs: 2 large eggs
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Mozzarella Cheese: 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- Meat Sauce: 24 ounces your favorite meat sauce (store-bought is perfectly fine!) See tips below for making your own.
- Spices: 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
This easy lasagna recipe is broken down into simple steps to ensure even beginner cooks can master it.
Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. This creamy mixture will form the heart of your lasagna.
Step 2: Assembling the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
Layer three lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Top with half of the remaining meat sauce.
Repeat the layering process: three more noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, and the remaining meat sauce.
Finally, top with the remaining three noodles and sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese.
Step 3: Baking to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Make your own meat sauce: Sauté ground beef or Italian sausage with onions, garlic, and your favorite herbs and spices. Simmer with crushed tomatoes and tomato paste until thickened.
- Vegetarian Lasagna: Omit the meat sauce and substitute with a vegetable sauce, adding sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Add vegetables: Layer sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms between the ricotta and sauce layers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture or meat sauce for a little kick.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses. Provolone, Fontina, or even a blend would work well.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your easy lasagna hot, accompanied by a simple green salad and crusty bread. It's a complete and satisfying meal!
This easy lasagna recipe with ricotta cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results! Remember to share your culinary creations using #EasyLasagnaRecipe. Happy cooking!
