Did you know the average American eats 14 pounds of pasta each year? That’s a lot of noodles! Lasagna is a favorite, and this recipe with ricotta has earned a perfect 5-star rating from many home cooks.
I’m excited to share my favorite homemade lasagna recipe. It’s sure to become a hit in your home. This dish is great for big groups or meal prep. Its rich flavors and simple ingredients make it a timeless classic.
This lasagna recipe with ricotta is special because of its creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and tender noodles. We’ll mix ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan with ground beef and Italian sausage. The result is a delicious lasagna that’s both comforting and impressive.
Ready to make this tasty homemade lasagna? Let’s start! I’ll guide you through each step, sharing tips for a perfect lasagna. This recipe is easy for all cooks, from beginners to pros. Get ready to make a lasagna that everyone will love!
Why This Classic Lasagna Recipe is a Family Favorite
This easy lasagna recipe is loved by many for a reason. It’s a comfort food that makes everyone happy. It’s perfect for both busy days and special events.
Perfect Balance of Flavors and Textures
The recipe’s success comes from its mix of flavors and textures. It has a creamy 3-cheese blend and a savory meat sauce. Each bite is both filling and delicious, with 29g of protein.
Time-Tested Traditional Recipe
This recipe is easy to make thanks to oven-ready noodles. It makes 12 servings, with each one having 368 kcal and 23g of carbs. It’s a meal that’s both tasty and healthy.
Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly Options
This recipe is great because it’s flexible. You can make it ahead of time or freeze it for later. It’s perfect for when you’re short on time or have unexpected guests.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| 3-cheese blend | Rich, creamy texture |
| Oven-ready noodles | Easy preparation |
| Freezer-friendly | Convenient meal planning |
| 12 servings per batch | Great for large families or leftovers |
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta
Let’s dive into the key ingredients that make this lasagna recipe stand out. Quality ingredients are the heart of any great dish, and this lasagna is no different.
Cheese Selection and Preparation
The cheese blend is key for that creamy, indulgent feel. You’ll need 2 cups of whole milk ricotta cheese, 2½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1½ cups of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix the ricotta with one large egg to make a smooth, binding layer.
Meat Sauce Components
For a hearty meat sauce, mix 1 pound each of ground beef and Italian sausage. Add 28 ounces each of tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes. Season with minced garlic, sugar, and Italian seasoning for depth of flavor.
Noodle Options and Preparation
Choose 16 no-boil lasagna noodles for ease. If using regular noodles, boil 12 until al dente. Always have extra noodles on hand in case of breakage.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers
Add these flavor boosters to your lasagna: garlic powder, Italian seasoning, fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. For an extra kick, add a splash of Italian dressing to your meat sauce.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ricotta cheese | 2 cups | Whole milk preferred |
| Mozzarella cheese | 2½ cups | Shredded |
| Ground beef | 1 pound | Lean recommended |
| Italian sausage | 1 pound | Casings removed |
| Italian seasoning | 2 teaspoons | For meat sauce |
Step-by-Step Assembly Instructions
Are you ready to make a delicious lasagna with ricotta cheese and meat? Let’s start building this classic dish. Grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and let’s begin!
First, heat your oven to 375°F. Spread about 1 cup of meat sauce at the bottom of your oiled dish. This makes a tasty base for your lasagna.
Next, place your first layer of lasagna noodles. Then, add a third of the ricotta cheese mixture and some meat sauce. Keep repeating this until you’ve used up all the ingredients.
For the last layer, put noodles and the remaining sauce on top. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a golden crust. Don’t forget to season each layer with salt, pepper, and herbs for extra taste.
Cover your lasagna with foil and bake for 50 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes to brown the cheese. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best slices.
Mastering the Layering Technique
Creating the perfect lasagna is all about mastering the layering technique. This step is key to making your dish taste amazing and hold together well. Let’s go through the process to help you make a delicious lasagna.
First Layer Foundation
Begin with a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking and adds flavor. Next, place a single layer of lasagna sheets, slightly overlapping them. If using no-boil noodles, break them as needed to fit the pan.
Middle Layer Building
Now it’s time to build your cheese layer. Spread a generous amount of ricotta cheese filling over the noodles. For extra flavor, infuse your ricotta mixture with garlic. Follow this with more meat sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese topping. Repeat these layers, alternating noodles, sauce, and cheese mixtures.
Final Layer and Cheese Topping
For the final layer, end with noodles topped with the remaining sauce and a generous mozzarella cheese topping. This creates a golden, bubbly crust when baked. For added flavor, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
| Layer | Components | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Bottom | Thin meat sauce | Prevents noodles from sticking |
| First | Noodles, ricotta filling, meat sauce | Overlap noodles slightly |
| Middle | Repeat first layer 2-3 times | Use about 1 cup of sauce per layer |
| Top | Noodles, sauce, mozzarella topping | Add Parmesan for extra flavor |
Baking Tips and Temperature Guidelines
Get ready to bake your lasagna to perfection! I’ll guide you through the essential steps to achieve that golden, bubbly goodness you’re craving.
Proper Baking Time and Temperature
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place your baking dish in the center rack and set the cook time for 30-40 minutes. This initial bake allows the flavors to meld and the layers to heat through evenly.
Covering and Uncovering Techniques
Start by covering your lasagna with aluminum foil. This traps moisture and prevents the cheese from burning. After the initial bake, remove the foil and continue cooking for 5-10 minutes. This final uncovered bake creates that irresistible golden-brown top.
Resting Period Importance
Once your lasagna reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, it’s done! But don’t dig in just yet. Let it rest for 15 minutes. This step allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve perfect portions.
| Baking Step | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Covered Bake | 375°F | 30-40 minutes |
| Uncovered Bake | 375°F | 5-10 minutes |
| Resting | Room temp | 15 minutes |
Follow these simple guidelines, and you’ll have a perfectly baked lasagna that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
Storage and Reheating Methods
This classic lasagna recipe is a make-ahead dream, perfect for busy families and meal preppers. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Or, prep the entire dish 3 days in advance. For longer storage, this freezer-friendly lasagna can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your lasagna, you’ve got options. For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the skillet method: press two slabs together and sear in a bit of oil for crispy edges and gooey centers. For a unique twist, use a waffle maker to create a crispy-edged, cheesy delight.
Frozen lasagna? No problem. Thaw overnight in the fridge, or bake straight from frozen at 375°F. Cover with foil and bake for an hour, then uncover for 24 minutes until it reaches 165°F internally. To keep your reheated lasagna moist and flavorful, add a splash of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of cheese before popping it in the oven. With these tips, your make-ahead lasagna will taste just as delicious as the day you made it.
FAQ – Lasagna
Can I make this lasagna recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it and refrigerate until baking time. For cold lasagna, add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before baking.
What’s the best cheese to use for lasagna?
Use a mix of cheeses for the best taste and texture. Ricotta adds creaminess, mozzarella stretches, and Parmesan brings a salty flavor. Whole milk ricotta is richer.
If ricotta is hard to find, cottage cheese is a good substitute.
Do I need to pre-cook the lasagna noodles?
It depends on the noodles. Traditional noodles need boiling until al dente. No-boil noodles save time but need thinner sauce.
How long should I let the lasagna rest before serving?
Let it rest for 15-20 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
Can I use store-bought sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought sauce. Choose a good quality one to enhance your lasagna’s flavor.
How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?
Drain wet ricotta and don’t over-sauce. Pat dry fresh mozzarella. Let it rest after baking to set the layers.
Can I make this lasagna vegetarian?
Definitely! Omit the meat and use a vegetable sauce. Add sautéed veggies like zucchini or spinach for extra flavor.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover lasagna?
Reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil. Bake for 20-30 minutes until hot. Microwave portions, but oven reheating is better.
Easy Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta
Ingredients
- Cheese Selection
- 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg for ricotta mixture
- Meat Sauce Components
- 1 pound ground beef lean recommended
- 1 pound Italian sausage casings removed
- 28 ounces tomato sauce
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- Minced garlic amount not specified
- Sugar amount not specified
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Noodles
- 16 no-boil lasagna noodles or 12 regular boiled noodles
- Seasoning & Flavor Enhancers
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Optional: Splash of Italian dressing for extra flavor
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread 1 cup of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Layer lasagna noodles, a third of the ricotta mixture, and meat sauce.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used.
- Top the final layer with noodles, remaining sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 50 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
- Let the lasagna rest for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Baking Tips: Cover with foil for moisture retention; uncover for golden cheese topping.
- Resting Period: Let lasagna sit for 15 minutes before slicing to allow layers to set.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
-
Reheating:
- Oven: 350°F, covered with foil, for 20-30 minutes.
- Skillet: Sear two slices together for crispy edges.
- Waffle Maker: Press slices for a unique crispy texture.
- Frozen: Bake at 375°F covered for 1 hour, then uncovered for 24 minutes.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
