There’s nothing quite as comforting as a pan of classic homemade lasagna fresh out of the oven. With layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese, this timeless Italian-American favorite has earned its place at family tables everywhere. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this lasagna delivers big flavor in every bite.
This easy lasagna recipe is made with simple pantry staples and straightforward steps, making it approachable for both beginner and experienced home cooks. A savory ground beef marinara forms the hearty base, while a seasoned ricotta mixture adds creaminess and balance. Finished with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan, the result is a perfectly baked, golden-topped classic.
One of the best things about traditional lasagna is its flexibility. It can be prepared ahead of time, baked when needed, and even frozen for future meals—making it ideal for busy households and meal prep. The flavors also deepen as it rests, meaning leftovers taste just as incredible the next day.
Whether you’re serving it with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or enjoying it on its own, this classic lasagna recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. Warm, filling, and endlessly comforting, it’s a go-to dish you’ll come back to again and again when you’re craving a reliable, crowd-pleasing dinner.
Classic Lasagna
This Classic Lasagna layers tender lasagna noodles with a hearty beef marinara sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and plenty of melted mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s a timeless comfort food that’s cozy, satisfying, and always a hit.
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz marinara sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cheese Filling
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lasagna Layers
12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Get Recipe Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add marinara sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Make the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, followed by ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with sauce and mozzarella on top.
Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.
Rest and Serve
Let lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Cooking Tips
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Letting the lasagna rest helps it hold its shape when slicing.
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For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine to the meat sauce while simmering.
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Shred your own mozzarella for better melting and texture.
Variations
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Vegetarian Lasagna: Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
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Three-Cheese Lasagna: Add shredded provolone or fontina for extra richness.
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Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
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Freezer-Friendly: Freeze unbaked lasagna tightly wrapped for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
