Classic Lasagna – Rich, Hearty, and Comforting
Classic lasagna is one of the most loved comfort foods in the world. With layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel (or ricotta), and melted cheese, it’s a dish that brings families together around the table. This traditional recipe delivers deep flavor, perfect texture, and that unmistakable homemade taste.
Whether you’re cooking for a Sunday dinner, special occasion, or meal prep, this classic lasagna never disappoints.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
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500 g (1 lb) ground beef
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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800 g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
For the Cheese Layer
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250 g (1 cup) ricotta cheese
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1 large egg
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Assembly
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9–12 lasagna noodles (pre-cooked or no-boil)
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300 g (3 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
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Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Time and Temperature
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Preparation Time: 30 minutes
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Cooking Time: 45–50 minutes
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Resting Time: 10–15 minutes
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Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Oven Temperature
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190°C (375°F)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
If using traditional lasagna noodles, cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay flat to prevent sticking.
Skip this step if using no-boil noodles.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
Layer in the following order:
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Lasagna noodles
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Ricotta mixture
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Meat sauce
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Mozzarella cheese
Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with meat sauce and mozzarella on top.
Step 5: Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with lightly golden edges.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove from oven and let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with garlic bread
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Pair with a fresh green salad
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Add roasted vegetables on the side
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Freeze cooked lasagna for up to 2 months
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Reheat in the oven at 170°C (340°F) or microwave individual portions
Tips for the Best Classic Lasagna
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Simmer the sauce for deeper flavor
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Don’t overcook noodles
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Let lasagna rest before cutting
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Use quality cheese for better melt
Variations
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Béchamel lasagna: Replace ricotta with white sauce
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Vegetable lasagna: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms
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Beef and pork mix: Adds richness
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Extra cheesy: Add provolone or fontina
Why This Recipe Works
The balance of slow-simmered meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella creates perfect layers of flavor and texture. Baking covered keeps it moist, while finishing uncovered ensures a golden top.
Conclusion
Classic lasagna is timeless for a reason. Rich, satisfying, and made for sharing, this recipe delivers everything you expect from a traditional homemade lasagna. Once you make it from scratch, it’s sure to become a regular favorite.