Classic Cheesy Lasagna

Classic Cheesy Lasagna is the epitome of comfort food, combining layers of tender pasta, hearty meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and generous amounts of melted cheese. This timeless Italian-inspired dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal is needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lasagna is rich, flavorful, and irresistibly cheesy. The layers of perfectly seasoned ground beef, velvety white sauce, and gooey mozzarella create a balanced texture and taste in every bite. It’s a dish that can be prepared ahead, freezes well, and satisfies appetites of all ages. Plus, it’s simple to customize based on your dietary needs or ingredient preferences.

Ingredients

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

• Lasagna noodles
• Ground beef
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Crushed tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Dried basil and oregano
• Salt and black pepper
• Ricotta or béchamel sauce
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the meat sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 20–30 minutes.
2. Prepare noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Assemble layers: In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce. Add a layer of noodles, followed by ricotta or béchamel, then mozzarella. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with cheese on top.
4. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Rest and serve: Allow lasagna to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8 portions
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: Approx. 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian version: Substitute the meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or lentils.
• Extra cheesy: Add a layer of provolone or fontina for added depth.
• Spicy twist: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or spicy sausage into the meat sauce.
• Low-carb option: Use zucchini or eggplant slices instead of pasta sheets.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions individually. To reheat, microwave individual slices or place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze it for later use.

Do I have to boil the noodles?

No-boil lasagna noodles work well and save time, just ensure there’s enough sauce to soften them during baking.

What’s the best cheese for lasagna?

Mozzarella is classic, but mixing it with Parmesan and ricotta gives better texture and flavor.

Can I freeze cooked lasagna?

Yes, let it cool completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to 3 months.

How do I avoid watery lasagna?

Make sure your sauce is thick and let the lasagna rest after baking before slicing.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground chicken or turkey is a lighter alternative that works well.

What size dish should I use?

A 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish is standard for lasagna.

How long should lasagna rest before cutting?

Let it rest for at least 10–15 minutes after baking to set the layers.

Can I skip the ricotta?

Yes, béchamel is a traditional alternative, or use cottage cheese if preferred.

What can I serve with lasagna?

Garlic bread and a green salad are classic pairings that balance the richness.

Conclusion

Classic Cheesy Lasagna is a dish that brings warmth and joy to the table. With its hearty layers and savory flavors, it’s a meal that everyone loves and that fits any occasion. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven or from a make-ahead batch, this lasagna guarantees satisfaction and secon

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