Classic Lasagna Recipe 🌟 Highly Rated
A Cozy Memory: Grandma’s Lasagna ❤️
When I think of lasagna, I don’t just think of layers of pasta and cheese — I think of my grandmother, her soft smile, and the warm scent of her kitchen on a Sunday afternoon.
Every weekend, like clockwork, Grandma would tie on her floral apron, pull out her worn wooden spoon, and start cooking her famous lasagna. The sauce would simmer on the stove for hours, filling the whole house with the rich, mouthwatering aroma of tomatoes, garlic, and love. As kids, we’d sneak little bits of mozzarella when she wasn’t looking — though somehow, she always knew.
She had this magical way of layering it all together, humming an old tune as she worked. The ricotta was always mixed with a touch of nutmeg (her secret, she said), and she’d say, “The real secret ingredient is love — but don’t tell anyone.” We’d all laugh, though we knew she meant it.
When it came out of the oven — bubbling and golden — she’d call us all to the table. And with the very first bite, it was like a warm hug from her heart.
To this day, every time I make lasagna, I feel her with me. It’s more than just food — it’s tradition, family, and the joy of sharing something beautiful with the people you love.
Classic Lasagna Recipe 🍝
Introduction
Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food — warm, cheesy, layered goodness that brings people together around the table. It’s a dish that’s been perfected over centuries and is beloved around the world for its rich flavor and heartwarming aroma.
Fun Fact 🌟
Did you know the first recorded lasagna recipe dates back to the 14th century in Italy? It was made without tomatoes (since they weren’t yet discovered by Europeans) and had layers of fermented dough and cheese. The modern version with tomato sauce became popular much later!
Why Lasagna is Unique
Lasagna stands out from other pasta dishes because of its structure. It’s essentially a pasta casserole, but it combines multiple textures — tender pasta, hearty meat, creamy béchamel, and gooey cheese — in perfect harmony. Each layer is a bite of tradition and creativity. Plus, it’s a great dish for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hr
Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 (6 oz) cans tomato paste
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
- 2 tsp sugar
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Make the Sauce
In a large skillet, cook ground beef, sausage, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain the fat.
Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes. - Cook the Noodles
In a large pot of salted water, cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and lay flat on a clean surface. - Mix the Ricotta
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with egg, a pinch of salt, and half the Parmesan. - Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a 9×13 inch baking dish:- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce
- Layer with 3 noodles
- Spread with ricotta mixture
- Sprinkle mozzarella
- Repeat 2 more times
- Finish with remaining sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Bake
Cover with foil (lightly tented) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 20 more minutes until bubbly and golden. - Rest & Serve
Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
Calories & Nutrition (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450–500 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbs | 34g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
🌟 Pro Tips for Perfect Lasagna Every Time
🍅 1. Let the Sauce Simmer
A rich, flavorful lasagna starts with a good sauce. Let your tomato sauce simmer for at least 30–45 minutes so the flavors deepen. A splash of red wine or a pinch of sugar can also elevate the flavor!
🧀 2. Use a Mix of Cheeses
Don’t rely only on mozzarella. Mix ricotta (for creaminess), parmesan (for sharpness), and mozzarella (for gooey stretch). Some chefs even add a little béchamel sauce for extra silkiness.
🍝 3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
If you’re using traditional lasagna noodles, boil them until just al dente—they’ll keep cooking in the oven. Or skip the hassle and use oven-ready noodles!
🥄 4. Layer Strategically
Start with sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking. Then go: sauce → noodles → ricotta/cheese → meat/veggies → repeat! End with sauce and a generous cheese topping.
🕒 5. Let It Rest
After baking, let your lasagna sit for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set so your layers stay stacked, not slidey!
🔥 6. Cover, Then Uncover
Cover your lasagna with foil while baking to keep it moist. Then uncover for the last 10–15 minutes to get that irresistible golden-brown cheesy top.
🧊 7. Make It Ahead or Freeze It
Lasagna actually tastes better the next day. You can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate (up to 2 days) or freeze it for a no-fuss dinner later.
