Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, but it doesn’t have to be a complicated affair. This easy lasagna recipe takes away the stress and delivers all the cheesy goodness you crave. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed family meal, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
Imagine layers of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese baked to perfection. This lasagna is your ticket to a fulfilling and delicious dinner that everyone will love. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients or make it vegetarian!
Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this easy lasagna recipe will have you feeling like a culinary pro.
Why Lasagna is a Comfort Food Classic
Lasagna holds a special place in the hearts of many. It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. With its layered structure, each bite offers a symphony of flavors that harmonize beautifully.
The combination of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheeses creates a satisfying experience. It’s a meal that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners.
Ingredients That Make It Irresistible
The magic of lasagna lies in its ingredients. A blend of ground meat and marinara sauce forms the flavor base, while ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan add richness.
Each layer contributes to the overall texture and taste, from the chewy pasta to the creamy filling. Fresh basil can elevate the flavor, adding a touch of brightness to this hearty dish.
Prep and Cooking Time
This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. With a total time of just under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
After a brief prep time, the baking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a bubbling masterpiece that’s hard to resist.
A Step-by-Step Assembly
Assembling lasagna is an opportunity to get creative. Start with a layer of meat sauce, followed by noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella, repeating the process until all ingredients are used.
Finishing with a generous topping of cheese ensures a golden-brown crust that contrasts with the soft, flavorful layers beneath.
Serving Suggestions
Serving this lasagna is a delight. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing, which helps maintain clean cuts.
Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. Pairing it with garlic bread complements the meal perfectly, making it a complete dining experience.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you’re looking for a meal that brings joy and satisfaction, look no further. This lasagna recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for any home cook.
Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Each layer tells a story of comfort and love, making it a dish worth sharing.
The Best Easy Lasagna Recipe
This easy lasagna is a satisfying dish featuring layers of flavorful meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella cheese. It’s hearty, comforting, and ready in under an hour, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Noodles: In a large pot, boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix the Ricotta: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Lasagna: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Layer 3 noodles on top, then spread half of the ricotta mixture, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with sauce and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g