Homemade Lasagna

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings family and friends together, this Homemade Lasagna is just what you need! There’s something magical about layers of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese that makes this recipe a cherished favorite in my kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this lasagna is sure to please everyone at the table.

Not only does this Homemade Lasagna taste incredible, but it also fills your home with that irresistible aroma of Italian goodness. It’s perfect for meal prep too; you can make it ahead and simply heat it up when you’re ready to enjoy. Trust me, once you serve this classic dish, the compliments will keep coming!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-friendly: Everyone loves lasagna! It’s a meal that brings smiles and full bellies.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps and ingredients, you can whip it up without any fuss.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when needed—perfect for busy days!
• Delicious flavor: Each bite bursts with savory goodness from the homemade sauce and cheeses.
• Perfect for gatherings: This recipe serves many, making it ideal for potlucks or family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Homemade Lasagna is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 lb. bulk Italian sausage
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (6 ounce) cans tomato paste
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (we love San Marzano tomatoes if available)
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• ⅓ cup water
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (reduce to 1 tablespoon for a less sweet sauce)
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (divided)

For the Cheese Mixture

• 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
• 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese (divided)

For Assembly

• 4 cups shredded mozzarella
• 9 oven-ready no-boil lasagna noodles

Variations

This Homemade Lasagna recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage for a leaner option.
• Go veggie: Replace meat with your favorite vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.
• Add some heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little kick in your lasagna.

How to Make Homemade Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Start by greasing a deep 9 x 13-inch baking dish; this helps prevent sticking. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook and crumble the sausage, ground beef, and onion until the meat is no longer pink—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Draining off the fat keeps your sauce from being greasy. Next, add minced garlic and tomato paste; cooking them together for just one minute enhances their flavors. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, brown sugar, parsley, basil, salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low to simmer uncovered until slightly thickened—this step takes about 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling

While your sauce simmers away happily on the stove, grab another bowl to mix up that creamy ricotta filling! Combine the lightly beaten egg with ricotta cheese and 1¼ cups of grated Parmesan cheese along with the remaining ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. This mixture adds richness and creaminess to each layer.

Step 3: Assemble Your Lasagna

Now comes the fun part! Spread about 2 cups of your delicious meat sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Layer on three noodles followed by one-third of that luscious ricotta mixture. Don’t forget to sprinkle on one cup of mozzarella cheese! Repeat these layers twice more: meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella—creating a beautiful stack of flavors. Finally, top everything off with any remaining meat sauce as well as mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover your lasagna with greased foil—this prevents sticking—and place it on a rimmed baking sheet just in case things bubble over while baking! Pop it into your preheated oven for 30 minutes covered. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until brown on top and bubbly throughout. The wait might be tough but letting it stand for at least 15 minutes before slicing ensures neat portions.

And there you have it—a delightful Homemade Lasagna that’s sure to be loved by all! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Lasagna

Making homemade lasagna is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use quality ingredients: Investing in high-quality tomatoes and cheese can elevate the flavor of your sauce and layers significantly. Fresh ingredients contribute to a richer taste and texture.
• Let the sauce simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer for a longer time will deepen its flavors. The slow cooking process helps marry the herbs and spices, resulting in a more robust and delicious sauce.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese: Cheese is what makes lasagna truly indulgent! Don’t be afraid to add an extra layer of mozzarella or Parmesan for that gooey, cheesy goodness that everyone loves.
• Rest before serving: Giving your lasagna some time to rest after baking allows the layers to set. This makes slicing easier and helps prevent all the filling from spilling out when served.
• Experiment with vegetables: If you want to add more nutrition or variety, consider layering in some sautéed spinach, zucchini slices, or mushrooms. They blend beautifully with the other flavors without overpowering them.

How to Serve Homemade Lasagna

Serving homemade lasagna can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan: A light dusting of grated Parmesan before serving enhances the cheesy flavor and provides an appealing presentation.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing that complements lasagna’s rich flavors. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch to your meal. The creamy dressing balances the hearty lasagna beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring color and nutrients to your plate, while their caramelized sweetness contrasts nicely with savory lasagna.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy touch and vibrant green color, making for a well-rounded meal that feels satisfying yet not too heavy.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your homemade lasagna will surely become a comforting favorite at any dinner table! Enjoy creating this delicious dish that brings warmth and joy to every gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

This homemade lasagna is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish on busy weeknights. You can easily store leftovers or even make it ahead of time for a future meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Cool the cooked lasagna completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen lasagna overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• For a quicker method, reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making homemade lasagna.

What is the best way to make homemade lasagna?

The best way to make homemade lasagna is by layering rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella between no-boil noodles. This ensures a delicious and hearty meal that everyone will love!

Can I prepare homemade lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble your homemade lasagna a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes it ideal for meal prep!

How long does homemade lasagna last in the fridge?

Homemade lasagna can last in the fridge for about 3-5 days when stored properly. Just be sure it’s cooled completely before sealing it up!

Can I freeze homemade lasagna?

Yes, you can freeze homemade lasagna! Be sure to let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container. It’s best used within 2-3 months.

What can I serve with homemade lasagna?

Pair your homemade lasagna with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to round out your meal. A light dessert like sorbet can also be a refreshing finish!

Final Thoughts

I hope this homemade lasagna recipe becomes a beloved favorite in your kitchen! With its layers of flavor and comforting ingredients, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Enjoy making this dish as much as you’ll enjoy sharing it with loved ones—happy cooking!