Description
This classic lasagna recipe layers tender noodles with a savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheese blend, and fresh basil, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a family dinner, it offers hearty flavors and a comforting texture that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Lasagna Noodles
- 9 lasagna noodles (traditional or no-boil)
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the lasagna.
- Cook Noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it is fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Mix Cheese Layer: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped fresh basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble Lasagna: Grease a baking dish lightly. Start layering by placing a layer of noodles on the bottom, followed by a layer of the meat sauce, then spread some of the ricotta mixture over the sauce. Repeat with another layer of noodles and continue until all ingredients are used. Finish with a top layer of noodles and sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the assembled lasagna with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to cook through and meld the flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This allows the cheese on top to turn golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This step helps the lasagna set and makes it easier to cut.
Notes
- For quicker preparation, no-boil noodles can be used, but adjust layering carefully to avoid the noodles becoming overly soft.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with sautéed vegetables or lentils.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried basil; use about 1 tablespoon dried for 1/4 cup fresh.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking improves slicing and serving.
- For extra flavor, add garlic or onion to the meat sauce when browning the beef.
