Classic Homemade Lasagna (Easy Weeknight)

This Classic Homemade Lasagna is the ultimate easy weeknight comfort food. Layers of tender pasta, hearty meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and plenty of melted mozzarella come together for a classic family dinner that’s satisfying, cheesy, and perfect for making ahead.

Classic Homemade Lasagna

Make this simple lasagna recipe for an easy weeknight dinner with layers of meat sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and tender pasta. Perfect for the whole family.

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Rest Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins

Servings: 8

Calories: 560

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• For the Meat Sauce
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion diced
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 24 ounces marinara sauce
• 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Cheese Filling
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• For Assembly
• 12 lasagna noodles cooked according to package directions
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Add the diced onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
6. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
7. Arrange a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
8. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then spoon on one-third of the meat sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
9. Repeat the layers two more times.
10. Finish with the remaining noodles, meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
11. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
13. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
14. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Notes

• Let the lasagna rest before cutting for cleaner slices.
• Cover with foil during the first part of baking to prevent over-browning.
• Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded.
• Simmering the sauce improves the flavor.
• Do not overcook the noodles since they’ll continue cooking in the oven.

Variations

• Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
• Add spinach to the ricotta filling.
• Mix ground beef and ground pork for richer flavor.
• Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini between the layers.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Roasted broccoli
• Green beans
• Italian chopped salad

Tips

• Assemble the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Freeze before or after baking for an easy future meal.
• Use oven-ready noodles if preferred.
• Grate your own Parmesan for the best flavor.
• Reheat leftovers covered to keep them moist.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Rest Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Servings

Serves: 8

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 560
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 31g
• Sodium: 820mg

FAQs

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

• Yes. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Can I freeze lasagna?

• Absolutely. Wrap it well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I use oven-ready lasagna noodles?

• Yes. They work well and eliminate the need to boil the pasta first.

Why should lasagna rest before slicing?

• Resting allows the layers to set, making it much easier to cut neat portions.

What cheese can I substitute for ricotta?

• Cottage cheese is the most common substitute and creates a similarly creamy texture.

How do I know when the lasagna is done?

• The sauce should be bubbling around the edges, the cheese should be golden brown, and the center should reach 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Simple Lasagna is an easy weeknight dinner that never goes out of style. With rich meat sauce, creamy cheese layers, and perfectly melted mozzarella, it’s a comforting family favorite that’s great for leftovers and meal prep.