Cheesy Lasagna

Cheesy lasagna is a classic comfort dish featuring layers of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and plenty of melted cheese. This hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. With its flavorful layers and gooey cheese, this homemade lasagna is a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic and comforting Italian dish
• Loaded with rich, cheesy goodness
• Perfect for feeding a crowd
• Great for making ahead and freezing
• Customizable with different fillings and sauces

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• For the meat sauce:
  • Ground beef or Italian sausage
  • Olive oil
  • Onion (chopped)
  • Garlic (minced)
  • Crushed tomatoes
  • Tomato paste
  • Tomato sauce
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper
  • Sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• For the cheese filling:
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Egg
  • Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Other ingredients:
  • Lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
  • Mozzarella cheese (shredded)

Directions

1. Prepare the meat sauce: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the onion until soft, then add garlic. Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Make the cheese filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley until well combined.
4. Assemble the lasagna: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce. Add a layer of cooked lasagna noodles, then spread ricotta mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Bake the lasagna: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Rest and serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
• Extra Cheesy: Add more layers of cheese or use different cheeses like provolone or gouda.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles.
• White Sauce Lasagna: Replace tomato sauce with a creamy béchamel sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Do I have to cook the lasagna noodles first?

You can use no-boil noodles, but if using regular ones, cook them until al dente before layering.

How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?

Drain excess liquid from cooked meat and let the lasagna rest before slicing.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese is a good substitute, but ricotta provides a creamier texture.

What is the best cheese for lasagna?

Mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan work best for flavor and texture.

Can I make lasagna without meat?

Yes, simply omit the meat or use plant-based alternatives.

How do I get perfect slices of lasagna?

Let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting to keep layers intact.

Can I use store-bought pasta sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce gives better flavor and texture.

How do I add more vegetables to lasagna?

Layer in spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Can I cook lasagna in a slow cooker?

Yes, layer ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.

Conclusion

Cheesy lasagna is a timeless and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting family dinner or prepare it ahead for meal planning, this recipe delivers rich flavors and creamy layers in every bite. Customize it to your taste and enjoy a homemade classic that never fails to impress.