The Ultimate Creamy and Cheesy Lasagna Recipe
Lasagna is the quintessential comfort food. With layers of tender noodles, savory ground beef, and a creamy blend of cheeses, it’s a dish that’s hard to resist. This famous lasagna recipe combines rich flavors and creamy textures, creating a meal that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a hearty Italian-inspired dish.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to making lasagna, this step-by-step guide will walk you through creating a beautifully layered lasagna that’s sure to impress.
Ultimate Cheesy Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients for My Famous Lasagna
Meat Sauce
- 2 lbs ground sirloin
- 24 oz meat-flavored spaghetti sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 tablespoon pepper
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz sour cream
- 8 oz small curd cottage cheese
- 6 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 6 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
Pasta
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked
Topping Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions for Making the Ultimate Cheesy Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, add the ground sirloin. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking up any large chunks.
- Add the Spaghetti Sauce: Drain the fat from the pan, then add the meat-flavored spaghetti sauce to the beef. Stir well to coat, using just enough sauce to make the mixture moist but not overly saucy. Let it simmer on low heat until you’re ready to layer the lasagna.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Mixture
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cottage cheese, and softened cream cheese. Add in 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Mix Until Smooth: Stir well until all the ingredients are fully blended, forming a creamy, smooth cheese mixture.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
- Boil the Noodles: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add 12 lasagna noodles and cook according to package directions, usually about 10 minutes.
- Drain and Set Aside: Drain the noodles and lay them out flat on a tray to prevent sticking as they cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch lasagna pan that’s deep enough for about three layers.
- Start with Meat Sauce Layer: Spoon a small amount of the meat sauce mixture onto the bottom of the pan. This helps prevent the noodles from sticking.
- First Noodle Layer: Lay down 3 lasagna noodles over the meat sauce, covering the bottom of the pan.
- Add Meat Sauce and Cheese Mixture: Spread 1/3 of the remaining meat sauce over the noodles, followed by 1/3 of the cheese mixture. Drop spoonfuls of the cheese mixture and smooth it gently over the sauce.
Step 5: Add the Shredded Cheeses
- Sprinkle Shredded Cheeses: Add 1/3 of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the cheese mixture layer. Sprinkle with a bit of Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat these layers two more times, ending with a final layer of noodles.
Step 6: Top with Mozzarella
- Final Cheese Layer: For the top layer, sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese to cover the lasagna evenly.
Step 7: Bake the Lasagna
- Bake: Place the lasagna in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for a Golden Top: For an extra golden-brown top, set the oven to broil on low and broil for about 5-8 minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
- Cool Before Serving: Let the lasagna rest for at least 30 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Slice and Enjoy: Cut into squares and serve hot. This lasagna pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a side salad.
Tips for Making Perfect Lasagna
Use Quality Ingredients
Quality meat, cheese, and pasta make a big difference in flavor and texture. Choose fresh, full-fat cheeses for the best results.
Don’t Over-Sauce the Meat
For this recipe, avoid using too much sauce in the meat mixture. The goal is to coat the meat rather than drench it, allowing the flavors of the beef and cheeses to shine through.
Cook the Noodles Al Dente
Cook the noodles just until al dente, as they’ll continue to cook slightly in the oven. Overcooked noodles can become mushy in the final dish.
Let the Lasagna Rest Before Serving
Allowing the lasagna to cool for at least 30 minutes helps the layers firm up, making it easier to slice and serving intact layers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
Can I Freeze Lasagna?
Absolutely! This lasagna freezes well. After assembling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, remove the plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F for about 90 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 15 minutes of baking to brown the top.
Can I Substitute the Sour Cream or Cottage Cheese?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute ricotta cheese for the cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for the sour cream. Both options will still provide a creamy texture with slightly different flavors.
How Long Does Lasagna Last in the Fridge?
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or reheat the whole pan in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Lasagna?
For the best texture, reheat lasagna in the oven at 350°F. Cover the pan with foil to keep the lasagna from drying out, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
This creamy, cheesy, and comforting lasagna recipe brings layers of flavors and textures that are both rich and satisfying. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s bound to become a favorite for those cozy nights in.