Classic Lasagna

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Few meals deliver the level of comfort and satisfaction that a bubbling, golden-topped lasagna brings to the table. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, this timeless Italian dish is a celebration of hearty, home-cooked flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing in advance for a busy week, lasagna always feels like a special occasion.

This version of classic lasagna keeps things traditional with a meaty marinara sauce, generous helpings of mozzarella and ricotta, and perfectly al dente lasagna noodles. The balance of savory, cheesy, and tangy flavors makes every bite an indulgence you’ll come back to again and again.

---

Why You’ll Love This Lasagna

Lasagna is a universal favorite for good reason. It’s filling, deeply flavorful, and makes excellent leftovers that taste just as good (if not better) the next day. This recipe is a great choice for weekend meal prep or feeding a crowd, and it’s easily customizable to suit dietary preferences.

You’ll love how the layers come together harmoniously, with the meat sauce soaking into the pasta and the cheeses melting into a luscious, savory blend. Plus, it freezes beautifully—perfect for those times when you need a meal in a pinch.

---

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Lasagna?

The best pasta for lasagna is traditional lasagna noodles that need to be boiled before layering. These give you the best texture and allow the sauce to cling properly. You can also use no-boil noodles if you’re short on time—just make sure to add a bit more sauce to keep everything moist.

For a slightly healthier twist, some like using whole wheat or gluten-free noodles. Just be mindful of the cook time adjustments and moisture levels. The key is to ensure the pasta layers stay tender, not mushy, while supporting all the cheesy, saucy goodness.

---

Ingredients for the Classic Lasagna

Every ingredient in this lasagna plays an essential role in building flavor and structure. From the meats to the cheeses, each component adds something delicious.

• Lasagna noodles: The foundation of the dish, creating sturdy layers to hold all the delicious fillings together.
• Ground beef: Adds rich, meaty flavor to the sauce and gives the lasagna its hearty profile.
• Italian sausage: Provides an extra punch of seasoning and depth with its fennel and herb notes.
• Onion & garlic: Aromatic essentials that bring out the full flavor of the meat sauce.
• Crushed tomatoes & tomato paste: The base of the savory marinara, bringing acidity, sweetness, and body to the sauce.
• Ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it softens each bite and balances the tang of the tomato.
• Mozzarella cheese: The classic melty layer that stretches beautifully with every slice.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds saltiness and a nutty edge to finish the dish with depth.
• Egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture so it stays creamy but firm.
• Fresh parsley & Italian seasoning: Adds a burst of herby brightness and aromatic complexity.
• Salt & pepper: Simple, but essential for flavor enhancement.

---

How To Make the Classic Lasagna

Step 1: Build the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Boil lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and lay flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, half the parsley, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Layer the Lasagna

Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, then a layer of ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and more sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

---

How to Serve and Store Classic Lasagna

This hearty lasagna serves about 8 people, making it ideal for gatherings, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week. Serve it hot and fresh from the oven, allowing it to rest for 10–15 minutes before cutting. This gives the layers time to set, making for cleaner slices and richer flavor.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover and warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave in short intervals. You can also freeze individual portions or the whole pan for up to 3 months. Just wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

---

What to Serve With Lasagna?

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is a must for sopping up extra sauce and balancing out the cheesy richness.

2. Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons add a cool, fresh contrast to the warm lasagna.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers for a colorful, healthy side dish.

4. Caprese Salad

Tomato, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze is a refreshing, light complement.

5. Antipasto Platter

A variety of olives, cured meats, marinated veggies, and cheese makes a delicious starter.

6. Sautéed Green Beans

Simple and fresh, green beans with a bit of garlic and lemon zest add brightness.

7. Minestrone Soup

A light bowl of Italian vegetable soup works wonderfully as a starter or side dish.

8. Italian Red Wine

Pair your lasagna with a Chianti or Sangiovese to enhance the bold tomato and meat flavors.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Bake as directed when ready to serve, adding an extra 10 minutes if it’s cold from the refrigerator.

2. Can I freeze lasagna before or after baking?
Absolutely. You can freeze it either way. For best texture, freeze before baking. Just wrap tightly and label. When ready, bake from frozen or thaw overnight and bake as usual.

3. What’s the best cheese blend for lasagna?
A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan is classic and provides the right balance of creamy, melty, and salty. You can also add provolone or fontina for variety.

4. How do I keep my lasagna from being watery?
Use a thick meat sauce and fully drain cooked noodles. Let the lasagna rest before slicing so the liquids can settle. Avoid overloading it with too much ricotta.

5. Can I make this lasagna vegetarian?
Yes, just skip the meat and add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also use lentils for a heartier texture.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with the classic meat version or try a veggie spin? Maybe you added extra cheese?

I love seeing how others bring their own twist to traditional recipes. Questions and feedback are always welcome—let’s keep the lasagna love going!
Find more dinner ideas and comforting classics on my Pinterest: Life With Livia

---

Conclusion

This Classic Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food—a dish layered with flavor, tradition, and pure satisfaction. Whether you’re serving a big family meal, prepping ahead for busy weeknights, or looking to impress dinner guests, this lasagna hits all the right notes.

Once you try it, it might just become a permanent favorite in your recipe rotation. Happy layering!

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?