The Best Homemade Lasagna

Name: The Best Homemade Lasagna
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 lb ground beef; ½ lb ground pork; 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp granulated sugar; ½ tsp dried basil; ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 16 oz full-fat ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; ¼ tsp dried basil; 9 lasagna noodles, uncooked; 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

As the weather turns crisp and the leaves transform into a dazzling array of colors, I find my heart yearning for cozy meals that bring family and friends together. Nothing embodies that warmth quite like a dish of homemade lasagna bubbling in the oven—its golden cheese, tender noodles, and rich meat sauce filling the air with an irresistible aroma. This is not just food; it’s a moment in time, a shared memory filled with laughter and love around a table.

Today, we’re making the best homemade lasagna, perfect for those easy weeknight dinners or special gatherings that call for something truly comforting. Just the thought of slicing into this hearty dish—layered with savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella—sends me back to cherished family dinners. So, gather your loved ones, and let’s dive into this delightful journey together. Trust me, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: This lasagna is the ultimate cozy meal that warms your soul.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family gatherings and holiday dinners—everyone will love it!
Easy Weeknight Dinner: While it’s satisfying and rich, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
Cooks in One Dish: Less mess and cleanup with all layers baked together in one convenient dish.
Customizable: From vegetarian options to zesty flavors, this recipe can be adapted to your taste preferences.

What You’ll Need

To create this comforting masterpiece, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb ground beef
½ lb ground pork
1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp granulated sugar
½ tsp dried basil
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
16 oz full-fat ricotta cheese
1 large egg
¼ tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
9 lasagna noodles, uncooked
4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s create the magic of homemade lasagna together!

Make the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, sauté the chopped onion until translucent, filling your kitchen with that warm, inviting smell. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Now, mix in the ground beef and pork until they’re perfectly browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper. Allow this beauty to simmer on low for about 20 minutes, letting the flavors meld and deepen.
Prepare the Ricotta Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, the large egg, and ¼ tsp dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and creamy; this filling is pure heaven!
Cook the Noodles: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the uncooked lasagna noodles and cook until al dente—just slightly firm to the bite. Drain and set aside, letting them cool for a few moments.
Assemble the Lasagna: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a layer of the meat sauce, followed by three noodles. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, topped with a generous layer of mozzarella. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with the remaining meat sauce, a shower of mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, admire the glorious layers for a moment, and bake for an additional 25 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden. Let it sit for 15 minutes before serving, letting all those incredible flavors set.

Variations & Creative Twists

There are endless ways to customize this classic lasagna masterpiece! Here are a few delightful variations to spark your creativity:

Veggie Lover’s Dream: Add layers of sautéed spinach, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers for a zesty, colorful twist.
Creamy Alfredo Lasagna: Swap out the meat sauce for a smooth, creamy Alfredo sauce combined with chicken for an indulgent treat.
Spicy Sausage Delight: Use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef for extra flavor and a kick!
Herbed Mushroom Blend: For a rich, earthy flavor, blend in sautéed mushrooms and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare the lasagna in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just add an extra 15 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to bake!
Ingredient Swaps: Don’t have ricotta? Cottage cheese works wonderfully as a creamy substitute in this recipe.
Slicing Tips: Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 15 minutes before cutting; this will help it hold its shape beautifully.
Leftover Love: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked taste!

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

Serving Size: 1/8 of the lasagna
Calories: Approximately 450
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 6g
Fat: 25g
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 800mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead? Yes! Prepare it the night before, refrigerate, and bake it the next day.
Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to swap meats or add your favorite veggies.
How do I store leftovers? Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
How long does it last? If well-stored, this lasagna can last in the freezer for up to 3 months!

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly special about sharing a homemade lasagna with those we love. It’s more than a meal; it’s a way to show appreciation and create lasting memories together. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished addition to your family dinners as it has in mine.

Save this The Best Homemade Lasagna to your comfort food board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Whether it’s a special occasion or just a chilly evening, I know you and your loved ones will find joy in every delicious bite. Happy cooking!