Name: Easy Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oven-ready lasagna noodles; 1 lb ground beef; 28 oz crushed tomatoes; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp sugar; Salt to taste

There’s something magical about an easy lasagna recipe that brings people together. The aroma of rich tomato sauce bubbling away, layers of gooey cheese melting down, and the hearty pasta holding it all together—it’s comfort food at its finest. Imagine sinking your fork into a warm, cheesy slice, savoring that first bite while your taste buds dance with delight. It’s a dish that serves as a hug on a plate.

The best part? You don’t need to be a chef to whip up this masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something cozy on a rainy day, this easy lasagna recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. I remember the first time I made it; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how it tasted just like Grandma’s! So let’s dive in and make some memories—one delicious layer at a time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy lasagna recipe allows for quick preparation without sacrificing flavor
Each layer is bursting with vibrant ingredients that create a colorful dish everyone will enjoy
The melty cheese adds irresistible creaminess, making each bite delightful
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s versatile enough to suit any palate

Growing up, my family always gathered around the table for lasagna nights. The laughter and stories shared over each cheesy bite are moments I cherish deeply.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Lasagna Noodles: Choose oven-ready noodles to save time and skip the boiling step.
Ground Beef: A classic choice that adds richness; you can also use turkey for a lighter option.
Crushed Tomatoes: Look for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor in your sauce.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy layer is essential; mix it with egg for extra richness.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole milk mozzarella for maximum gooeyness.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds that nutty kick; don’t skimp on this!
Fresh Basil: Adds brightness; feel free to substitute dried if fresh isn’t available.
Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatics that elevate the flavor of your meat sauce.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for added depth in cooking the onions and garlic.
Sugar and Salt: Balance out the acidity of the tomatoes with sugar and season well with salt.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients on your countertop to streamline cooking. Chop onions and garlic finely; they will provide aromatic depth to your sauce.

Sauté Aromatics and Meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic until soft and fragrant before adding ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbly.

Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Stir in crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and fresh basil into the skillet. Let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Create Your Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with an egg, some salt, and pepper until smooth. This mixture is what dreams are made of!

Layer It Up!: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom. Then add noodles followed by ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, more sauce, and repeat until you run out! Finish with mozzarella on top.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil to allow the cheese to bubble up enticingly for another 15 minutes.

And there you have it! A beautiful lasagna ready to steal the spotlight at any meal. Just let it cool slightly before slicing—if you can wait!

Enjoy this journey into comfort food heaven where each bite tells a story of warmth and love!

You Must Know

This easy lasagna recipe is not just delicious; it’s a crowd-pleaser that simplifies dinner time
With layers of cheesy goodness and rich sauce, it’s a family favorite
Plus, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by cooking the noodles first, then prepare your sauce while they cool. Layer everything in a greased baking dish for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ricotta for cottage cheese or add spinach for extra nutrients. These small changes can make a big difference!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To create a balanced flavor, use fresh herbs like basil and oregano in your sauce
Allow the lasagna to rest before serving for better slicing
For added richness, consider mixing different cheeses for a gourmet twist

Creating my first easy lasagna recipe was a messy adventure. My kitchen looked like a cheese explosion, but the smiles at dinner made it all worthwhile.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make this easy lasagna recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day before and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What type of meat should I use in this easy lasagna recipe?

Ground beef, sausage, or turkey work great for added flavor and texture.

How do I prevent soggy lasagna with this easy lasagna recipe?

Use less sauce or drain excess liquid from vegetables to keep it firm.