Go Back
–+ servings
Easy Lasagna Recipe

Easy Lasagna Recipe

This Easy Lasagna Recipe brings together layers of tender pasta, rich beef sauce, creamy ricotta, and bubbly Parmesan for the ultimate homemade Italian comfort food casserole.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 slices

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lean ground beef 93% lean; ground turkey or Italian sausage works too
  • 12 lasagna noodles regular or no-boil (Barilla brand for consistent texture)
  • 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese drain in a fine mesh strainer for less moisture
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese freshly shredded melts best
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Parmigiano-Reggiano optional but worth it
  • 24 oz crushed tomatoes San Marzano style or any plain crushed variety
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste adds depth; look for double-concentrate tubes
  • 1 small onion finely chopped (yellow or white; sweet and mild)
  • 3 cloves garlic minced (fresh—avoid jarred to boost aroma)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for sautéeing; mild flavor works fine
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or sub 1 tbsp fresh, chopped
  • 1 tsp dried basil plus extra fresh basil for garnish
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a gentle kick
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for finishing touch)

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautée until soft and fragrant—about 3 minutes.
  • Add ground beef, cook until no pink remains. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes.
  • Preheat oven to 375 °F. Cook lasagna noodles if using regular ones. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  • Layer noodles, meat sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan in a baking dish. Repeat layers and finish with cheese on top.
  • Cover dish with foil and bake, then uncover and bake until bubbly and golden. Optionally broil for a crisp top.
  • Let lasagna rest before cutting. Garnish with parsley and basil for a fresh finish.

Notes

Tips: choose part-skim ricotta for lighter fare. Fresh herbs perk up the sauce. No-boil noodles save time.
Keyword Baked Pasta Dish, Family Meals, Homemade Lasagna, Italian Comfort Food, Lasagna
Love this recipe?Follow us at @Recipecs for more