Name: Best Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound sweet Italian turkey sausage; 3/4 pound lean ground beef; 1/2 cup onion, minced; 2 cloves garlic, crushed; 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes; Two 6 ounce cans tomato paste; Two 6.5 ounce cans canned tomato sauce (or one 15 oz. can); 1/2 cup water; 2 Tablespoons sugar (optional); 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil leaves; 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds (optional); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 teaspoons salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 4 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, divided; 12 lasagna noodles, regular or no cook; 16 ounces ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded; 3/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 265 reviews

If you have ever wanted to make a hearty, soul-warming dinner that brings everyone to the table with eager smiles, then you are in the right place. This Best Lasagna Recipe combines layers of perfectly seasoned meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, tender noodles, and gooey melted cheese to create a dish that feels like a warm hug. With every bite, you will experience a symphony of flavors and textures that elevate this classic Italian comfort food to legendary status. Whether it’s a family gathering or a weeknight treat, this lasagna recipe is sure to become your go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pot filled with thick red tomato sauce mixed with small pieces of ground meat and green herbs scattered throughout, creating a rich, textured appearance; a wooden spoon is partially dipped into the sauce, showing off its chunky consistency. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface with a blue and white striped cloth partially visible underneath on the left side, and fresh green parsley rests on the top right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The secret to creating the Best Lasagna Recipe lies in simple, quality ingredients that each play a distinct role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Every component, from the savory sausage to the creamy ricotta, works harmoniously to make this dish unforgettable.

1 pound sweet Italian turkey sausage: Brings a light sweetness and rich flavor without too much fat.
3/4 pound lean ground beef: Adds heartiness and depth to the meat sauce.
1/2 cup onion, minced: Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic base for the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, crushed: Infuses the sauce with bold, savory notes.
28 ounce can crushed tomatoes: Forms the vibrant and tangy foundation of the sauce.
two 6 ounce cans tomato paste: Helps thicken the sauce and boost its rich tomato flavor.
two 6.5 ounce cans canned tomato sauce (or one 15 oz. can): Keeps the sauce smooth and moist for perfect layering.
1/2 cup water: Ensures the sauce does not become too dense and maintains a luscious texture.
2 Tablespoons sugar (optional): Balances acidity from the tomatoes for a rounder flavor.
1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil leaves: Adds an herby, slightly sweet aroma to the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds (optional): Introduces a mild anise-like flavor for complexity.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that tie the sauce ingredients together beautifully.
2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the savory flavors in the dish.
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Gives just a hint of spice and warmth.
4 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, divided: Adds fresh herbaceous brightness.
12 lasagna noodles, regular or no cook: The backbone of the dish, creating perfect layers; no cook noodles save time and effort.
16 ounces ricotta cheese: Provides creamy richness and a slightly tangy flavor.
1 egg: Binds the ricotta filling for perfect texture.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances seasoning in the ricotta mixture.
3/4 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully to create gooey, cheesy goodness.
3/4 cups grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish and golden crust when baked.

How to Make Best Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

The magic starts with building a flavorful meat sauce. Brown the sweet Italian turkey sausage and lean ground beef in a large skillet along with the minced onion and crushed garlic until the meat is cooked through and the onions are tender. This mixture forms the rich base of your sauce, providing savory depth and mouthwatering aroma.

Step 2: Simmer the Sauce

Once the meat is browned, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Add the sugar, dried basil, fennel seeds if using, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and half of the chopped fresh parsley. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to the perfect consistency for layering.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Filling

While the sauce simmers, mix the ricotta cheese with the egg, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and the remaining parsley. The egg helps bind the ricotta and keeps it creamy yet firm after baking, while the parsley adds a fresh, herby spark. This filling will contrast wonderfully with the robust meat sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

If you are using regular lasagna noodles, cook them in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. No cook noodles can be used straight from the package, soaking up sauce moisture beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Layer 4 noodles next, followed by a third of the ricotta mixture, then a third of the shredded mozzarella, and a little Parmesan. Repeat this layering two more times until all ingredients are used, ending with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a bubbling golden crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the lasagna with foil—try to tent it so it doesn’t stick to the cheese—and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let the lasagna rest for about 15 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set perfectly.

How to Serve Best Lasagna Recipe

A white baking dish filled with a layered lasagna sits on a white marbled surface next to a blue and white striped cloth and green parsley leaves. The top layer is covered with a thick, even spread of shredded white cheese mixed with grated pale yellow cheese, showing a soft and slightly stringy texture. Beneath the cheese topping, rich red tomato sauce with hints of ground meat can be seen lightly peeking out around the edges, suggesting multiple layers of sauce, cheese, and pasta within. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Once plated, a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of color and a fragrant, fresh flavor. For extra indulgence, drizzle a little high-quality olive oil on top or add a few red pepper flakes if you like a subtle kick.

Side Dishes

The richness of this Best Lasagna Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or green beans also complement the dish by adding texture and brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun family meal, serve the lasagna in individual mini casserole dishes or ramekins. This not only controls portions but also makes each serving feel special and comforting. Alternatively, layering the lasagna in a glass baking dish shows off those gorgeous layers—making it almost too pretty to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers from the Best Lasagna Recipe are a delight for the next day. Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making it just as good if not better the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover lasagna by wrapping individual portions or the entire dish airtight with plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to enjoy a meal that tastes freshly made.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to maintain moisture. Microwave reheating works too, but can dry out the lasagna if heated too long. Adding a small splash of water or extra sauce before reheating helps keep it lovely and moist.

FAQs

Can I make this Best Lasagna Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the meats with sautéed mushrooms, chopped spinach, zucchini, or lentils to keep it hearty and flavorful. Using a vegetarian-friendly tomato sauce will round out the dish perfectly.

Is it better to use no-cook or regular noodles?

No-cook noodles save time and simplify assembly, as they soften during baking by absorbing the sauce’s moisture. Regular noodles need to be boiled first but offer a more traditional texture. Both yield delicious results based on your preference!

How do I prevent the lasagna from becoming watery?

Simmering your sauce until thick and not overly watery, using drained ricotta and properly cooking noodles (if not no-cook) help keep the layers intact. Resting the lasagna after baking also helps set the layers, reducing excess moisture.

Can I prepare the lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is excellent as a make-ahead dish. You can assemble it a day before and keep it in the refrigerator, then bake fresh when ready. It’s perfect for hosting or busy weeknights.

What cheese can I substitute if I don’t have ricotta?

Cottage cheese is a common substitute that works well, offering similar creaminess and mild flavor. For a richer taste, blend it with a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone. Just be sure to drain excess liquid if using cottage cheese to avoid sogginess.

Final Thoughts

This Best Lasagna Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy every time it graces the dinner table. The blend of flavors, the creamy and cheesy textures, and the comforting aroma will make it an instant classic in your kitchen. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious lasagna as much as I do. Happy cooking!