Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lasagna recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s made with simple ingredients, and you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. The layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese come together perfectly in this easy-to-make dish. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and the best part is, it’s incredibly forgiving and adaptable. If you want to add extra veggies or swap in different types of cheese, it’s easy to customize to your taste!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
9 lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular)
16 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 tablespoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes, then remove from heat.
In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a third of the ricotta mixture, a third of the meat sauce, and a third of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Repeat the layering process two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
Cheese: Try using a blend of different cheeses like provolone, gouda, or ricotta mixed with a little cottage cheese for a twist on the classic.
Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes to the sauce to give it a kick.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure the marinara sauce is free from gluten.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it the day before, refrigerate, and bake it the next day.

2. Can I freeze lasagna?

Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the lasagna, but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake it straight from the freezer at 375°F for about 60 minutes.

3. Can I use regular lasagna noodles instead of no-boil?

Yes, if you’re using regular noodles, make sure to cook them according to the package instructions before assembling the lasagna.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like ricotta mixed with mascarpone, mozzarella with provolone, or even gouda for a smoky flavor.

5. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella cheese to make this dish dairy-free.

6. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for an extra kick.

8. How do I prevent the lasagna from being watery?

Make sure to drain the cooked meat well and avoid using too much sauce. You can also let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes after baking to help it set.

9. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers are great additions to the layers.

10. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara works great in this recipe, though homemade sauce is always a nice option if you have the time!

Conclusion

This easy lasagna recipe is a winner for any night of the week. It’s quick, simple, and absolutely delicious, giving you all the comfort of a homemade lasagna without the time and effort usually required. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy family meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.