Lasagna Recipe: How to Make the Best Homemade Lasagna from Scratch

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes stir the soul (and the appetite) like a classic lasagna.

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With its rich meat sauce, velvety ricotta, perfectly cooked noodles, and bubbling layers of cheese, the lasagna recipe we’re sharing today hits every note of warmth, nostalgia, and full-on flavor.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Lasagna Recipe

Lasagna Recipe: How to Make the Best Homemade Lasagna from Scratch

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This homemade lasagna recipe is hearty, cheesy, and layered with rich meat sauce and creamy ricotta for the ultimate comfort food dinner. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a weeknight treat, this dish never fails to impress. ⭐ Save this recipe, try it tonight, and experience why it’s called the best lasagna from scratch!

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 8

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cans (15 oz each) crushed tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tsp sugar

• 2 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

• Cook the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, brown beef and sausage over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened. Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 20–25 minutes.

• Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, and parsley. Mix until smooth and set aside.

• Cook the Noodles: Boil lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

• Assemble the Lasagna:

  • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  • Layer 4 noodles over the sauce.

  • Spread with 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, followed by 1/3 of the mozzarella and more sauce.

  • Repeat twice more, ending with sauce on top.

  • Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and mozzarella.

• Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

• Rest & Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow layers to set.

Notes

• For extra flavor, deglaze the meat sauce with 1/2 cup of red wine before adding the tomatoes.

• Make ahead: Assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.

• Freezer friendly: Freeze baked portions for quick future meals.

• For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef and sausage.

• Author: SOFIA
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Choosing the Right Meats and Seasonings

The secret to a bold, deeply flavored meat sauce? A combo of ground beef and Italian sausage. This blend gives you richness, spice, and juiciness that ground beef alone can’t provide.

Use these basic seasonings for balance:

• Onion & garlic: foundational aromatics
• Crushed tomatoes & tomato paste: texture and depth
• Fresh basil, oregano & fennel seed: classic Italian flavor
• Salt & black pepper: to round it out

Optional but great: a splash of red wine to deglaze and enhance the sauce.

Cheese Trio: Why Three Cheeses Make the Difference

The best lasagna recipes rely on three types of cheese for a perfect blend of creamy, stretchy, and salty:

For extra creaminess, mix the ricotta with an egg, fresh parsley, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Check out ourAll-American Potato Salad

How to Make the Rich, Savory Meat Sauce

Step-by-Step: Sausage, Beef, and Tomato Perfection

Start by browning both the ground beef and sausage in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Once the meat is browned:

1. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes.
4. Add herbs, salt, pepper, and red wine (optional).
5. Simmer for at least 45 minutes, uncovered.

The longer it cooks, the deeper the flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Secrets to Building Flavor in Your Sauce

• Use quality canned tomatoes like San Marzano for natural sweetness
• Toast your spices in the oil before adding tomatoes
• Add a pinch of sugar if your tomatoes taste acidic
• Finish with a pat of butter for richness

Don’t miss our One-Pot Lentil Bolognese for another hearty, meatless sauce idea.

Preparing the Ricotta Layer and Pasta Noodles

How to Mix Ricotta with Egg and Herbs

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mix until smooth and set aside.

Cooking Lasagna Noodles for the Perfect Texture

You have two options:

• Boil noodles until just under al dente (don’t overcook)
• Use no-boil lasagna noodles, which soften while baking

If boiling, lay noodles flat on parchment after draining to avoid sticking.

Assembling the Lasagna Layers Like a Pro

The Correct Layering Order Explained

Here’s the classic structure from bottom to top:

1. Meat sauce
2. Noodles
3. Ricotta mixture
4. Mozzarella + parmesan
5. Repeat layers (2–3 times)
6. Top with meat sauce, then cheese

Each layer should be even but not overloaded, allowing flavors to bake through.

Avoiding Common Assembly Mistakes

• Don’t over-sauce—your lasagna will turn soggy
• Start and end with sauce to protect the noodles
• Let everything cool slightly before cutting, so slices hold together

Looking for inspiration? Try our Vegan Lasagna Soup for a deconstructed twist on this classic.

Baking and Resting: Final Steps for Perfection

Covering and Baking Lasagna the Right Way

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
• Cover lasagna with foil (tent it to avoid touching cheese)
• Bake for 25 minutes covered, then 20 minutes uncovered for a golden top

Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra browning.

Why Resting the Lasagna Matters (Yes, It’s Crucial)

After baking, let your lasagna rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. This helps:

• Set the layers
• Prevent watery servings
• Enhance flavor and presentation

Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Instructions

How to Store Leftovers Without Drying Out

• Store leftovers in an airtight container
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days
• Reheat in oven at 350°F or microwave with a damp paper towel on top

Sprinkle a little extra mozzarella when reheating to freshen up the top layer.

Freezing and Reheating Lasagna Without Losing Flavor

• Freeze before or after baking (wrap tightly in foil)
• Defrost overnight in fridge
• Bake at 375°F for 30–40 minutes until hot in the center

Label and date your dish before freezing!

Delicious Lasagna Variations to Try

Vegetarian Lasagna with Spinach and Zucchini

Skip the meat but not the flavor. Sauté:

• Zucchini
• Mushrooms
• Spinach
• Onion and garlic

Layer just like the traditional version with ricotta and marinara.

White Sauce Lasagna with Chicken or Mushrooms

For a creamy twist:

• Swap red sauce for béchamel or alfredo
• Use shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed mushrooms
• Add mozzarella and parmesan as usual

This version is rich, comforting, and a great alternative to tomato-based lasagna.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dish Ideas

Salads, Breads, and Drinks That Pair Perfectly

Balance the heaviness of lasagna with light and fresh sides:

• Arugula or Caesar salad
• Garlic bread or focaccia
• Roasted asparagus or green beans
• Red wine like Chianti or a sparkling Italian soda

Presentation Tips for a Dinner Party Favorite

• Slice cleanly with a serrated knife
• Use a metal spatula to lift each piece
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color
• Serve in wide, shallow bowls for that restaurant vibe

Looking for a no-meat option? Discover our Vegan Lasagna Roll-Ups for fun, individual servings.

FAQ Section: Lasagna Recipe Questions Answered

What’s the best cheese blend for lasagna?

Ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan give you the ideal combination of creamy, stretchy, and salty.

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture.

Do I need to boil lasagna noodles first?

Not always. No-boil noodles work great, but if using traditional ones, boil until just under al dente.

What’s the best way to layer lasagna?

Start with meat sauce on the bottom, then pasta, ricotta, shredded cheese, and repeat. Always end with sauce and cheese on top.

Can lasagna be frozen after baking?

Yes! Cool it fully, wrap well, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat at 375°F for 30–40 minutes.

How do I keep lasagna from getting watery?

Avoid over-saucing and let it rest after baking. Using slightly undercooked noodles also helps absorb excess moisture.

Conclusion: A Lasagna Recipe You’ll Come Back to Forever

This lasagna recipe is more than dinner—it’s tradition, comfort, and flavor layered into one dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping, or cooking for someone special, this guide ensures your lasagna is always unforgettable.