Best Lasagna

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lasagna recipe is beloved for its rich, savory flavor and its layers of cheese and meaty sauce. With both Italian sausage and ground beef, the filling is hearty and flavorful, while the combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses gives it a creamy, gooey texture. The seasoning is just right—balanced with basil, fennel, and a hint of sweetness from the sugar, which enhances the tomato sauce. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a family dinner, this lasagna is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 1-1/4 pounds bulk Italian sausage
• 3/4 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cans (one 28 ounces, one 15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
• 2/3 cup water
• 2 to 3 tablespoons sugar
• 3 tablespoons plus 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley, divided
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 3/4 teaspoon fennel seed
• 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 carton (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
• 4 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage and ground beef over medium heat, breaking the meat apart with a spoon. Once browned, remove excess fat and add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the onion softens.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, sugar, 3 tablespoons of parsley, dried basil, fennel seed, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and coarsely ground pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
5. While the sauce simmers, mix the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a bowl. Set aside.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, then spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles. Top with one-third of the meat sauce and one-third of the mozzarella-Parmesan cheese blend.
8. Repeat this layering process two more times—noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and cheese—until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a top layer of mozzarella-Parmesan cheese.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 8 people and takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Variations

• Vegetarian lasagna: Replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach, or use a meat substitute like plant-based crumbles.
• Different cheeses: Swap out the ricotta for cottage cheese or add in other cheeses like provolone or fontina for added flavor.
• Add spinach: For extra nutrients, add a layer of sautéed spinach or fresh basil between the noodles.
• Spicy lasagna: Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze lasagna either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing after baking, let the lasagna cool, then wrap in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating individual slices, microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven.

Can I use no-boil noodles for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute regular noodles with no-boil lasagna noodles. Just be sure to add extra sauce to ensure the noodles cook properly.

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and sausage, or even use a combination of meats such as ground lamb.

Can I make lasagna without ricotta cheese?

Yes! If you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute with a mix of cottage cheese or mascarpone cheese, or even just extra mozzarella for a cheesier result.

How do I prevent lasagna from being watery?

Be sure to cook the sauce long enough for it to thicken before assembling the lasagna. Drain the noodles well and avoid over-saucing the layers.

Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?

Yes! Fresh basil can be used in place of dried basil. You’ll need about 1 tablespoon of fresh basil for every teaspoon of dried basil.

How long should I let lasagna rest before serving?

Allow the lasagna to rest for about 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps it set so that you can easily slice it without the layers falling apart.

Can I freeze lasagna?

Yes, lasagna freezes very well. You can freeze it either before or after baking. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

Can I add other vegetables to this lasagna?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the meat sauce or layer them between the noodles for extra flavor and nutrients.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to use different cheeses according to your taste preferences. Provolone, gouda, or even cheddar can be used for variations in flavor.

Conclusion

This Best Lasagna recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, with its hearty layers of flavorful meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a family or entertaining guests. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or reheating leftovers, this lasagna is a dish everyone will look forward to. Enjoy it for dinner, and savor the delicious layers of comfort in every bite!

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