Classic Baked Lasagna: The Ultimate Comfort Food That Brings Everyone to the Table! 🧀



 For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or half beef, half Italian sausage)

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • ¼ cup red wine (optional, but recommended)

For the Cheese Filling:

  • 16 oz whole milk ricotta cheese

  • 1 large egg

  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Assembly:

  • 12 lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular)

  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Creating Your Lasagna Masterpiece: Layer by Layer Perfection

Step 1: Create the Rich Meat Sauce

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef and sausage over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.

  2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.

  3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.

  4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, sugar, and red wine if using.

  5. Simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Filling

  1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, egg, parsley, ½ cup Parmesan, salt, and pepper.

  2. Mix until smooth and well-combined.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta (If Using Regular Noodles)

  1. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente.

  2. Drain and lay flat on kitchen towels to prevent sticking.

Step 4: The Art of Layering

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (175°C).

  2. Spread 1 cup of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.

  3. Arrange 4 noodles over the sauce (slightly overlapping).

  4. Spread ⅓ of the ricotta mixture over noodles.

  5. Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.

  6. Repeat layers twice more: sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella.

  7. Top with final layer of noodles, remaining meat sauce, and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Step 5: Baking to Golden Perfection

  1. Cover with foil (sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking) and bake for 25 minutes.

  2. Remove foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

  3. Let rest for 15-20 minutes before cutting - this is crucial for clean slices!

Pro Tips for Lasagna Excellence

  • NO-BOIL NOODLE SECRET: Add an extra ½ cup of water around the edges of the pan before baking

  • PREVENT SOGGY BOTTOM: Let your meat sauce cool slightly before assembling

  • CHEESE PERFECTION: Use whole milk mozzarella for better melting and flavor

  • FLAVOR BOOST: Let the assembled lasagna rest in the refrigerator for 24 hours before baking for incredible flavor development

Serving Suggestions: Make It a Feast!

  • THE CLASSIC: Serve with garlic bread and a crisp green salad

  • ITALIAN FEAST: Add antipasto and roasted vegetables

  • COMFORT COMBO: Pair with warm focaccia and roasted asparagus

The Final Slice: Why This Recipe Becomes a Family Treasure

This Classic Baked Lasagna is more than just a recipe - it's a piece of culinary heritage that brings people together. The rich layers of flavor, the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, and the joy of serving something made with love - these are the moments that create lasting memories around the dinner table.

We'd love to hear from you! What's your favorite family pasta dish? Do you have a special lasagna ingredient that makes yours unique? Share your stories and tips in the comments below! 🇮🇹