Go Back
–+ servings
Homemade Lasagna

Savory Homemade Lasagna That's Perfect for Family Nights

This homemade lasagna is a must-try for family nights, packed with rich layers of meat sauce and cheeses.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness and flavor; substitute with vegetable oil if desired.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Provides sweetness and an aromatic base.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Enhances flavor; use garlic powder as a substitute if fresh is not available.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef (93/7) Main protein source; ground turkey works for a lighter option.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes Adds acidity and texture; fresh tomatoes can substitute.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Creates a savory base; homemade sauce offers a fresher taste.
  • 0.5 cup Water Adjusts sauce consistency; reduce if using fresh tomatoes.
  • 2 pieces Bay Leaves Adds depth to the sauce; remove before serving.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Delivers Italian flavor; fresh basil can provide a more vibrant taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Balances acidity from tomatoes; optional based on preference.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Provides a herb blend; omit or replace with fresh herbs as available.
  • to taste to taste Salt Enhances flavor.
  • to taste to taste Black Pepper Adds spiciness.
For the Cheese Layer
  • 15 ounces Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese Adds a creamy texture; cottage cheese can be a suitable substitute.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Provides creaminess and melt; opt for low-moisture mozzarella for best results.
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese Adds a salty and nutty flavor; perfect for layering and topping.
For the Noodles
  • 12 pieces Lasagna Noodles The base structure of the dish; use no-boil noodles for quicker prep.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Oven

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Lasagna
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté one chopped yellow onion for about 2-3 minutes until softened, then add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 pound of ground beef. Cook until browned, crumbling as it cooks. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, ½ cup of water, 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1 tablespoon sugar, and season with salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1-2 hours until thickened.
  2. While the meat sauce simmers, mix together 15 ounces of whole milk ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1 tablespoon chopped parsley in a large bowl. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 lasagna noodles according to package directions, reducing time by one-third if using no-boil noodles. Drain and place in cold water to stop the cooking process.
  4. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Place 5-6 noodles on top, followed by half of the cheese mixture, and one-third of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat layering, finishing with noodles topped with remaining meat sauce and an extra cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown.
  6. Allow lasagna to cool for 20-30 minutes before slicing to let layers set.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Homemade lasagna can be prepared in advance and stored for convenience. It also freezes well for future meals.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!