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The Best Lasagna

The Best Lasagna: Your Cozy Comfort Food Classic

Experience The Best Lasagna, a delightful blend of layers, perfect for family gatherings and easy preparation.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Can substitute with ground turkey.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Use lean for less fat.
  • 1 Onion Chopped yellow onion recommended.
  • 4 Garlic Minced fresh garlic is best.
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes Canned fresh tomatoes can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Omit for lower sodium.
  • 15 ounces Tomato Sauce Can replace with more crushed tomatoes.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Optional; can use honey or omit.
  • 1 tablespoon Basil Use ½ amount when using dried.
  • 1 teaspoon Fennel Seeds Omit if not preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Use individual herbs if desired.
  • Salt and Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley Can substitute with cilantro.
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Can replace with cottage cheese.
  • 1 Egg Omit for dairy-free version.
For the Noodles and Toppings
  • 12 Lasagna Noodles OVEN-READY variety preferred.
  • 4 cups Mozzarella Cheese Use low-moisture for best results.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast for vegan option.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Aluminum Foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage and ground beef for about 5-7 minutes until cooked through. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, basil, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer on low for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and chopped parsley. Stir until creamy and blended. Set aside to let flavors meld.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1.5 cups of meat sauce in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer the oven-ready noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture and a generous portion of mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with meat sauce and top with more mozzarella and Parmesan.
  4. Cover with aluminum foil lightly sprayed with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  5. Let rest for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows layers to set for neat slices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This lasagna can be frozen before or after baking, wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. Allow to rest before serving for best results.

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