Classic Lasagna Recipe

Lasagna is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug at the dinner table. With layers of pasta, savory sauce, creamy cheese, and gooey toppings, it has become one of the most beloved comfort foods in the world. This version stays true to the classic Italian-American style: hearty, flavorful, and designed to feed both your stomach and your soul.

Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply because you’re craving something indulgent, this recipe will walk you through each step with ease. You don’t need to be a professional chef to master it — just follow along and you’ll have a beautiful lasagna bubbling away in your oven.

Why This Lasagna Stands Out

There are countless ways to prepare lasagna, but the classic version remains timeless for good reason. It strikes a perfect balance between textures and flavors. The tender pasta sheets soak up the rich meat sauce, the creamy ricotta mixture adds depth, and the melted mozzarella on top ties everything together.

Here’s why you’ll love this dish:

• Approachable for beginners – With step-by-step instructions, anyone can prepare it.
• Make-ahead friendly – Perfect for busy schedules or meal prepping.
• Customizable – Swap proteins, add vegetables, or play with cheese blends.
• Crowd-pleasing – A guaranteed hit for family dinners and gatherings.

Ingredients for Classic Lasagna

Let’s break down what you’ll need to bring this lasagna to life.

Pasta

• 12 lasagna noodles
  These form the foundation of the layers. You can use regular or oven-ready noodles, but traditional boiled noodles tend to give the best texture.

Meat Sauce

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar marinara sauce (24–26 oz)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

This sauce is the heart of the lasagna. Rich, savory, and slightly tangy, it brings everything together.

Cheese Filling

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg

The ricotta mixture adds creaminess and binds the layers without being heavy. Parmesan provides sharpness, and the egg helps with structure.

Cheese Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Extra Parmesan for sprinkling

The final cheesy topping creates the golden crust that makes lasagna irresistible.

Garnish

• Fresh parsley (chopped)

It adds a touch of color and freshness when serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble and bake a lasagna that looks as good as it tastes.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook until just al dente — usually a minute or two less than package instructions. Drain and rinse with cool water to prevent sticking. Lay the noodles flat on a baking sheet or lightly oil them to keep them from clumping.

Make the Meat Sauce

Heat olive oil in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Once cooked through, stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, and the egg. Stir until smooth. This mixture will create the creamy layers that contrast beautifully with the meaty sauce.

Assemble the Layers

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Start with a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking. Then layer in this order:

1. Noodles (3–4 laid side by side)
2. Ricotta mixture spread evenly
3. Meat sauce
4. Sprinkle of mozzarella

Repeat these layers two more times. Finish with a final layer of noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and a generous blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan.

Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Rest and Serve

Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial as it allows the layers to set, making clean, even portions easier to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley before bringing it to the table.

Tips for Success

• Undercook your noodles slightly – They’ll continue cooking in the oven.
• Use whole-milk cheeses – They melt creamier and taste richer.
• Try veggie add-ins – Sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms add flavor and nutrition.
• Don’t skip the resting time – It makes slicing neater and helps flavors develop.
• Upgrade your sauce – Homemade marinara adds incredible depth if you have the time.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Lasagna is a dream when it comes to preparing ahead or saving leftovers.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10 extra minutes of baking time if starting cold.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly with foil and freeze unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen for about 70–80 minutes, uncovering at the end.
• Leftovers: Store cooked lasagna in the fridge for 3–4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

What to Serve with Classic Lasagna

A good lasagna doesn’t need much else, but pairing it with the right sides makes the meal complete.

• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
• Caesar salad or a fresh green salad
• Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
• A glass of red wine like Chianti, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon

FAQs about Lasagna

Can I make lasagna without meat?
Yes! Substitute the beef with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or eggplant for a hearty vegetarian version.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Absolutely. Cottage cheese can be used as a lighter substitute, though it has a slightly different texture.

How do I keep lasagna from being watery?
Make sure your sauce is thick and not too runny. Also, allow the lasagna to rest after baking — this helps excess liquid settle.

Can I assemble lasagna the night before?
Yes, lasagna can be assembled 24 hours in advance and refrigerated. Bake just before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat lasagna?
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until warmed through. The microwave works for single portions but may soften the texture.

Final Thoughts

Classic lasagna is more than just food — it’s tradition, comfort, and togetherness layered into one dish. From the savory sauce to the creamy ricotta filling and gooey mozzarella topping, every bite feels indulgent and satisfying.

With its make-ahead flexibility, customizable options, and ability to please a crowd, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re serving it for Sunday dinner or freezing a batch for busy weeknights, lasagna never fails to deliver warmth and flavor straight from the oven.