Lasagna

Lasagna is a classic baked pasta dish made with tender lasagna sheets, rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese layers, and savoury fillings. Its hearty structure, layered flavours, and comforting warmth make it a favourite for family meals and gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers a balanced lasagna that is flavourful, satisfying, and beautifully layered. Each component—sauce, pasta, cheese, and optional meat or vegetables—works together to create a dish that feels both indulgent and homely. It can be prepared in advance, customised easily, and serves as a complete, filling meal.

Ingredients

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

lasagna noodles
ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
ricotta cheese
mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
onion
garlic
tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
olive oil
dried oregano
dried basil
salt
black pepper
egg (for ricotta mixture)
fresh parsley

Directions

1. Preheat the oven and prepare a large baking dish.

2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions, unless using no-boil noodles.

3. Sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.

4. Add the ground beef or sausage if using, cooking until browned.

5. Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; simmer to allow flavours to develop.

6. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with egg, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.

7. Spread a layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

8. Add a layer of noodles, followed by the ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and more sauce.

9. Repeat the layers until ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and mozzarella on top.

10. Cover with foil and bake until bubbling.

11. Remove foil and bake briefly to allow the cheese to brown slightly.

12. Let rest before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 40–50 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 75–85 minutes

Variations

• Use spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a vegetarian version.

• Replace meat with lentils for a high-protein plant-based alternative.

• Add a béchamel layer for a richer, classic Italian style.

• Use spicy sausage for added heat and depth.

• Substitute part of the mozzarella with provolone for extra flavour.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven for best results, ensuring the centre is warmed through.
Individual slices can be microwaved, though the texture may soften.
Lasagna freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Why is my lasagna watery?

Excess moisture in sauces or vegetables can cause this; simmer the sauce longer and drain vegetables thoroughly.

Can I assemble lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Should I use no-boil noodles?

They are convenient and work well, but traditional noodles provide a firmer texture.

Can I make lasagna without meat?

Yes, vegetables, lentils, or plant-based meat work as excellent substitutes.

How do I keep the noodles from sticking?

Rinse cooked noodles lightly and lay them flat on parchment paper.

Why does lasagna need to rest before cutting?

Resting helps the layers set, making it easier to slice cleanly.

Can I add different cheeses?

Yes, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, provolone, and fontina all work well.

How do I prevent the top from over-browning?

Keep the lasagna covered with foil for most of the baking time.

Can I reduce the cheese?

Yes, adjust amounts according to your preference without affecting the structure.

How long does frozen lasagna take to reheat?

Bake from frozen for 60–75 minutes or until fully heated through.

Conclusion

Lasagna is a timeless, satisfying dish that brings together comforting layers of pasta, sauce, cheese, and savoury fillings. Its rich flavour, impressive appearance, and flexibility make it ideal for family dinners, celebrations, and meal prep. With its classic appeal and reliable results, lasagna remains a beloved staple in home kitchens.

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