Lasagna is a dish that’s loved worldwide, but let’s be honest it can sometimes feel overwhelming to make from scratch. That’s why this easy lasagna recipe simplifies the process while still delivering rich, cheesy, and hearty layers that taste just like a classic homemade dish.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or freezing it for later, this lasagna is foolproof and full of flavor. Plus, I’ll share pro tips to prevent soggy noodles, keep the sauce flavorful, and make your lasagna layers hold up perfectly.
Table of Contents
Introduction: The Best Easy Lasagna Recipe
Lasagna isn’t just food, it’s comfort in a dish. But if you’ve ever found yourself staring at a pile of ingredients wondering where do I even start?, you’re not alone! Traditional lasagna can feel time-consuming, but this easy version makes it simple, quick, and stress-free while keeping all the flavors we love.
Why This Recipe Works
✅ Beginner-Friendly: No complicated steps just simple layering.
✅ Time-Saving: Uses easy-to-find ingredients and efficient techniques.
✅ Perfectly Layered: No more messy, falling-apart lasagna!
✅ Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly: Prepares in advance without losing freshness.
Who Will Love This Recipe?
- Busy home cooks who need a delicious weeknight dinner option.
- Meal preppers looking for a dish that stores and reheats well.
- Pasta lovers who crave that cheesy, saucy, and satisfying bite every time.
Ingredients for the Best Easy Lasagna Recipe
Great lasagna starts with quality ingredients. The beauty of this easy lasagna recipe is that it doesn’t require anything fancy just simple, everyday staples that, when combined, create a rich, cheesy, and deeply flavorful dish.
For the Meat Sauce (The Heart of the Dish!)
A great lasagna sauce should be thick, rich, and packed with flavor. Instead of just using plain marinara, we’ll add ground meat, spices, and a few secret ingredients to make it irresistible!
- ¾ lb. ground beef – Adds deep, savory flavor.
- ¾ lb. ground Italian sausage – Brings a hint of spice and extra richness.
- 1 small onion, finely diced – Sweetens the sauce and enhances depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Because no great Italian dish is complete without garlic!
- 40 oz. marinara sauce – Use a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Deepens the tomato richness.
- ½ cup chicken broth – Adds moisture and enhances the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Gives an umami kick.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce – Enhances flavor without making it spicy.
For the Ricotta Cheese Mixture (The Creamy Layer!)
A creamy, well-seasoned cheese mixture is what makes lasagna extra indulgent.
- 15 oz. ricotta cheese – The base of the creamy filling.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind everything together.
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty bite.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Ensures a rich, gooey texture.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
- ½ teaspoon salt + ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Enhances the overall flavor.
For the Lasagna Layers (The Structure!)
Getting the layers just right is key to holding everything together while baking.
- 12 lasagna noodles (plus extra in case of breakage) – No-boil noodles can also be used!
- 2.5 cups mozzarella cheese (for the topping) – Because extra cheese = extra deliciousness!
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
✅ No ground beef? Swap it for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
✅ Want a cheesier filling? Mix in cottage cheese with ricotta for extra creaminess.
✅ Gluten-free? Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or even thin-sliced zucchini.
✅ Lower carb? Skip the pasta and use eggplant or zucchini slices as layers.
Looking for more classic comfort food recipes? Check out this baked bean recipe for a perfect side dish to serve alongside your lasagna!
How to Make This Easy Lasagna Recipe (Step-by-Step Guide)
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring your lasagna to life! The secret to a perfect lasagna? It’s all about layering everything just right and baking it to melty, golden perfection.
Follow these simple, foolproof steps, and you’ll have a thick, cheesy, and saucy lasagna that holds its shape and tastes absolutely amazing.
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce (The Foundation of Flavor!)
A rich, hearty sauce is the backbone of any great lasagna. Instead of just using plain marinara, we’ll enhance it with ground meat, garlic, and seasonings for a deep, savory flavor.
1️⃣ Sauté the onion – Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until soft and slightly golden.
2️⃣ Brown the meat – Add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Break it up with a spatula and cook for 8-10 minutes until fully browned. Drain excess grease.
3️⃣ Add garlic & seasonings – Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
4️⃣ Pour in marinara & broth – Add the marinara sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer for 15 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Cheese Mixture (The Creamy, Cheesy Goodness!)
While the sauce simmers, let’s mix up the ricotta filling this is what makes the lasagna extra rich and delicious!
1️⃣ In a medium bowl, combine:
- Ricotta cheese (15 oz.)
- Egg (1 large)
- Parmesan cheese (¾ cup, grated)
- Shredded mozzarella (2 cups)
- Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
2️⃣ Stir everything together until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles (Unless Using No-Boil Noodles!)
If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, you’ll need to cook them just right—too soft, and your lasagna will turn mushy!
1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2️⃣ Add the lasagna noodles and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
3️⃣ Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
4️⃣ Lay the noodles flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
💡 Pro Tip: Using no-boil lasagna noodles? Skip this step! They’ll absorb moisture from the sauce as the lasagna bakes.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Layers
Now comes the fun part building the perfect layers for a well-balanced, sturdy lasagna!
1️⃣ Spread 1 cup of meat sauce evenly on the bottom of a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
3️⃣ Spread ⅓ of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles.
4️⃣ Add 1½ cups of meat sauce on top, spreading it evenly.
5️⃣ Repeat this layering process two more times (noodles → ricotta → sauce).
6️⃣ For the final layer, place 4 more lasagna noodles on top and spread the remaining meat sauce evenly.
7️⃣ Top with shredded mozzarella cheese (at least 2.5 cups more if you love extra cheese!).
Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
1️⃣ Cover the dish with foil (spray the foil with nonstick spray to prevent the cheese from sticking).
2️⃣ Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
3️⃣ Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
4️⃣ Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a slightly crispy cheese topping.
5️⃣ Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing this helps the layers hold together!
🔥 Boom! You just made a perfect homemade lasagna that looks and tastes incredible!
Love hearty, comforting meals? Try this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta it’s just as rich and satisfying as this lasagna! 🍽️🔥
Try this creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta it’s just as rich and satisfying as this lasagna! 🍽️🔥
Make-Ahead Lasagna: The Best Meal Prep Hack!
One of the best things about this easy lasagna recipe is that it’s perfect for meal prep! Whether you want to assemble it the night before, freeze it for later, or store leftovers, this lasagna holds up beautifully. No more last-minute dinner stress just heat, serve, and enjoy!
🕒 How to Make Lasagna Ahead of Time (No Baking Required!)
If you’re planning to serve lasagna tomorrow (or even two days from now), here’s what to do:
1️⃣ Assemble the lasagna completely but don’t bake it!
2️⃣ Cover the dish tightly with foil to lock in freshness.
3️⃣ Refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
4️⃣ When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
5️⃣ Bake as usual just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
💡 Pro Tip: Making lasagna ahead actually enhances the flavor since the ingredients have more time to meld together!
Freezing Lasagna for Later (Up to 3 Months!)
Want to freeze lasagna for a quick future meal? Here’s how:
1️⃣ Assemble the lasagna in a freezer-safe dish (or use disposable foil trays for easy cleanup!).
2️⃣ Wrap tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with foil to prevent freezer burn.
3️⃣ Label with the date so you don’t forget when you made it.
4️⃣ Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
🛑 Never Freeze Hot Lasagna!
Always cool the sauce before assembling, or it could create excess moisture, making your lasagna watery when thawed.
Baking Frozen Lasagna (No Thawing Needed!)
1️⃣ Remove the plastic wrap but keep the foil on.
2️⃣ Bake covered at 375°F for 60 minutes.
3️⃣ Remove the foil and bake for another 20-30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
4️⃣ Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
If you have time, you can also thaw it in the fridge overnight this reduces baking time by about 30 minutes.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers Like a Pro
In the fridge: Store lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
In the freezer: Store individual portions in freezer bags for easy grab-and-go meals.
🔥 Reheating Leftover Lasagna:
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, covering with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for crispy edges!
Why This Meal Prep Hack is a Game-Changer
✅ Saves time on busy nights – Just pop it in the oven and relax.
✅ Prevents food waste – Perfect for using up ingredients.
✅ Tastes even better the next day – More time = richer flavors!
Now that you’ve got lasagna prepped and stored, let’s talk about how to reheat it without losing that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste in Part 6: How to Reheat Lasagna Without Drying It Out!
If you love hearty, freezer-friendly meals, check out this easy meatloaf recipe for another comforting dish that stores beautifully!
How to Reheat Lasagna Without Drying It Out
So, you’ve got leftover lasagna lucky you! The problem? Reheating it the wrong way can leave it dry, rubbery, or unevenly heated (nobody wants a cold center with burnt edges!). But don’t worry I’ve got the best methods to bring your lasagna back to life while keeping it cheesy, saucy, and just as delicious as the first time!
Best Ways to Reheat Lasagna (Without Ruining It!)
1️⃣ Reheating Lasagna in the Oven (Best for Large Portions!)
Ideal for bringing back that just-baked texture!
✔️ Preheat oven to 350°F
✔️ Place lasagna in an oven-safe dish (or keep it in the original baking dish)
✔️ Add a splash of water or extra marinara sauce on top to keep it moist
✔️ Cover loosely with foil to trap steam and prevent the cheese from burning
✔️ Bake for 25-30 minutes (or 40 minutes if frozen) until piping hot in the center
✔️ Remove foil in the last 5 minutes for a slightly crispy top
💡 Pro Tip: If reheating a single slice, place it in a small baking dish and follow the same method, reducing the bake time to 15-20 minutes
2️⃣ How to Reheat Lasagna in the Microwave (Quick & Easy!)
Great for busy days, but be careful it can dry out fast!
✔️ Place a single slice of lasagna on a microwave-safe plate
✔️ Add a little water or marinara sauce over the top (this keeps it moist!)
✔️ Cover with a damp paper towel (this traps steam and prevents dryness!)
✔️ Heat in 30-second intervals until heated through (about 2-3 minutes total)
✔️ Let it sit for 30 seconds before eating this helps the heat distribute evenly
⚡ Microwave Mistake to Avoid: Never blast it on high power for several minutes straight this leads to hot edges and a frozen center!
3️⃣ Air Fryer Method (For Crispy Edges!)
Perfect if you love lasagna with a slightly crunchy top!
✔️ Preheat the air fryer to 350°F
✔️ Place a single slice of lasagna in the air fryer basket
✔️ Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning
✔️ Heat for 5-7 minutes or until warm in the center
⏩ Pro Tip: Remove the foil in the last 2 minutes to crisp up the cheese!
Reheating Frozen Lasagna (No Thawing Needed!)
Didn’t get a chance to thaw your frozen lasagna? No worries! You can reheat it straight from frozen using these methods:
✔️ Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 60 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20-30 minutes until bubbly.
✔️ Microwave: Use the defrost setting for 5 minutes, then heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
✔️ Air Fryer: Not recommended this method works best for smaller portions.
The Secret to Keeping Lasagna Moist When Reheating
🔥 The #1 mistake people make? Not adding moisture back into the dish!
Always add a spoonful of water, marinara sauce, or broth before reheating to prevent dryness and revive that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
✅ Best reheating method for large portions? Oven
✅ Best for a quick single slice? Microwave
✅ Best for crispy edges? Air fryer
If you love crispy, cheesy textures, try this cheesy garlic zucchini steaks they make the perfect side dish for lasagna!
Pro Tips for the Best Easy Lasagna Recipe
Want to take your lasagna from good to absolutely incredible? The difference between a decent lasagna and a mind-blowing, restaurant-quality dish comes down to a few simple tricks. From preventing soggy noodles to getting that perfect cheesy top, these pro tips will guarantee a lasagna that’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly layered every single time!
1. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese (Never Pre-Shredded!)
Packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. If you want gooey, stretchy, and creamy cheese pulls, always shred your mozzarella fresh from a block.
✔️ Best cheese for lasagna:
- Low-moisture, whole milk mozzarella (melts beautifully without getting greasy!)
- Parmesan cheese (adds a salty, nutty bite!)
- Ricotta cheese (for a creamy, rich texture!)
💡 Pro Tip: Want extra depth of flavor? Add a little Fontina or Provolone to the mix!
2. Use High-Quality Marinara Sauce
Lasagna is all about the sauce, and not all jarred marinara sauces are created equal! Skip the cheap, watery ones go for a rich, slow-simmered sauce with deep tomato flavor.
✔️ Best store-bought marinara? Look for one with minimal preservatives and real ingredients.
✔️ Making homemade marinara? Simmer crushed San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil for the best results.
3. No-Boil vs. Traditional Lasagna Noodles: Which is Better?
Ever wondered if no-boil lasagna noodles are worth it? Here’s the breakdown:
✔️ Regular Lasagna Noodles Need boiling but provide a firm, classic texture.
✔️ No-Boil Lasagna Noodles Save time and absorb sauce while baking, making them softer and easier to work with.
💡 Pro Tip: If using no-boil noodles, add extra sauce so they stay soft and don’t dry out!
4. Let Your Lasagna Rest Before Slicing
Cutting into lasagna too soon = a messy, soupy disaster.
✔️ Wait at least 15 minutes after baking so the layers set properly.
✔️ Use a sharp knife to slice and a spatula to lift each piece.
💡 Pro Tip: For picture perfect slices, let the lasagna cool for 30 minutes, then reheat slices individually.
5. Avoid These Common Lasagna Mistakes!
❌ Overloading on ricotta: Too much = an overly heavy, mushy texture.
❌ Not enough sauce: Dry lasagna is the worst! Always spread sauce evenly on each layer.
❌ Overcooking the noodles: If using regular noodles, only cook them al dente or they’ll turn mushy.
❌ Skipping the foil: Covering the dish prevents cheese from burning while baking!
Final Thoughts: Mastering the Easy Lasagna Recipe
By now, you’ve learned:
✅ How to make a rich, savory meat sauce.
✅ The right way to layer lasagna for maximum flavor.
✅ The best cheeses & sauces for a gooey, delicious result.
✅ The perfect reheating methods to keep lasagna moist and flavorful.
Follow these pro tips, and your lasagna will be the talk of the table! Now, what’s next? If you’re craving more Italian comfort food, check out this creamy crockpot angel chicken it’s another rich, cheesy, and comforting dish you’ll love!
Food Safety Tips for the Best Lasagna
When making lasagna, it’s important to handle ingredients like ground meat, dairy, and eggs safely to prevent foodborne illnesses. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides essential guidelines on safe food storage, proper cooking temperatures, and handling perishable ingredients. Learn more about food safety best practices to keep your homemade lasagna fresh and safe to enjoy!
Easy Lasagna Recipe: Original recipe
Equipment
- Pizza Peel
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- ¾ lb. ground beef
- ¾ lb. ground Italian sausage
- 1 pc small onion, finely diced
- 3 pc cloves garlic, minced
- 40 oz. marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
For the Ricotta Cheese Mixture:
- 15 oz. ricotta cheese
- 1 pc large egg
- ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Lasagna Layers:
- 12 lasagna noodles regular or no-boil
- 2.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Instructions
- Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add ground beef and sausage, breaking it apart. Cook for 8-10 minutes until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add marinara sauce and chicken broth, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer for 15 minutes.
- Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until creamy and smooth.
- Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles (Skip if using no-boil noodles)
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Cook lasagna noodles until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain and rinse with cold water. Lay flat to prevent sticking.
- Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Spread 1 cup of meat sauce in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread ⅓ of the ricotta mixture evenly on the noodles.
- Add 1½ cups of meat sauce on top.
- Repeat the layers two more times (noodles → ricotta → sauce).
- Finish with 4 noodles, the remaining sauce, and 2.5 cups of mozzarella on top.
- Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover with foil (spray foil with nonstick spray to prevent sticking).
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for 10-15 more minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Make-Ahead & Storage Instructions
- Make-Ahead Option (No Baking Required):
- Assemble the lasagna completely, but do not bake.
- Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Add 10 extra minutes to baking time if lasagna is cold.
- How to Reheat Leftovers:
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, covering with a damp paper towel.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for crispy edges.
Notes
✅ No-boil noodles? Add extra sauce to keep them from drying out.
✅ Let lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing for perfect layers.
✅ Avoid overcooking noodles—they’ll cook more in the oven.
✅ Want extra flavor? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.