Introduction

This classic homemade lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, layered with rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and tender lasagna noodles. Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s a hearty meal perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy weekend treat. With every layer, you’ll taste pure Italian-inspired goodness.

Ingredients

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, sausage, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with the egg and half of the Parmesan cheese.
6. Assemble the lasagna in a baking dish:
   • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom.
   • Add a layer of noodles.
   • Spread ricotta mixture over noodles.
   • Sprinkle mozzarella cheese.
   • Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with sauce and mozzarella on top.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Make ahead: Prepare the lasagna a day before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
• Vegetarian option: Replace meat with layers of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.
• Cheese lovers: Add provolone or fontina for an extra cheesy twist.
• Freezer-friendly: Wrap baked lasagna tightly and freeze up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this lasagna with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, and a glass of red wine for a complete Italian-style dinner. It’s rich, filling, and always a crowd-pleaser!