To make classic homemade lasagna, follow these key steps:
Ingredients
- Lasagna noodles (usually about 12)
- Meat sauce (ground beef or sausage cooked with onions, garlic, tomato sauce, and Italian seasonings)
- Cheese mixture (ricotta mixed with egg, salt, pepper, and some grated mozzarella and Parmesan)
- Additional shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the meat sauce:
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil.
- Brown ground meat (beef, pork, or sausage) with seasonings like oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Add marinara or tomato sauce and simmer to develop flavor. Optionally add a bit of sugar to balance acidity
- Cook the noodles:
- Boil lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking
- Mix the cheese filling:
- Combine ricotta cheese with beaten egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg (optional), and some grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
- Assemble the lasagna:
- Spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Place 3-4 noodles over the sauce.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture on the noodles.
- Add another layer of meat sauce.
- Repeat the layering 2-3 times, finishing with noodles topped with sauce and shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with foil (to prevent the cheese from burning) and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Optionally broil for a few minutes for a browned cheese crust
- Rest and serve:
- Let the lasagna cool for 15-20 minutes before slicing to allow it to set.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired
Tips
- You can prepare the meat sauce and cheese mixture ahead of time.
- Lasagna can be assembled in advance and refrigerated or frozen before baking.
- Use good quality marinara or homemade tomato sauce for best flavor.
- Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if preferred, or use plant-based alternatives for a vegan version
This method yields a rich, comforting lasagna with layers of tender noodles, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese, perfect for family meals or special occasions
