If you’re looking for the ultimate homemade lasagna, this recipe is layered with rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese for a truly authentic Italian experience!
This tried-and-true recipe creates a deeply flavorful, comforting, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping.
Ingredients (Serves 8-10)
For the Meat Sauce:
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef
- 250g (½ lb) Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 800g (2 cans) crushed tomatoes
- 400g (1 can) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- ½ cup red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (to balance acidity)
For the Cheese Filling:
- 500g (2 cups) ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Layers:
- 12 lasagna noodles (cooked al dente)
- 400g (4 cups) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meat Sauce
1️⃣ Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped onion, and cook until browned.
2️⃣ Stir in garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
3️⃣ Pour in red wine (if using) and sugar, and simmer on low for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
4️⃣ In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
5️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
6️⃣ Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
7️⃣ In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of meat sauce on the bottom.
8️⃣ Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
9️⃣ Spread ⅓ of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
🔟 Repeat layers twice, finishing with meat sauce and shredded mozzarella.
1️⃣1️⃣ Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Step 5: Bake & Serve
1️⃣2️⃣ Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
1️⃣3️⃣ Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
1️⃣4️⃣ Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
🍽️ Serve warm with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 22g
(Values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Tips & Tricks for the Best Lasagna
✅ Use a mix of meats – Combining ground beef and Italian sausage adds rich, bold flavors.
✅ Don’t skip resting time – Letting the lasagna rest prevents it from falling apart when sliced.
✅ Try oven-ready noodles – If you’re short on time, skip boiling and use no-boil noodles!
✅ Make it ahead – Assemble the lasagna and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh.
✅ Freeze leftovers – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months for a quick meal later!
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