Homemade Lasagna:
Table of Contents
Homemade Lasagna layers tender pasta, savory beef, and creamy cheese into an irresistible casserole that transforms any dinner table into an Italian feast. Learn the history and origins of this comfort classic on Wikipedia. This simple lasagna recipe uses homemade lasagna noodles for extra authenticity and flavor, guiding you how to make lasagna step by step with ease. Whether you’re craving a classic Italian lasagna recipe, exploring lasagna casserole recipes for family gatherings, or seeking new lasagna ideas to elevate weeknight dinner recipes, this baked lasagna recipe delivers comforting satisfaction in every forkful. From rich beef lasagna recipe fillings—packed with iron-rich protein (WebMD)—to lightened veggie swaps, discover how homemade lasagna brings warmth and joy to your home kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines rich, slow-simmered beef sauce with tender homemade lasagna noodles for an authentic taste
- Breaks down how to make lasagna with clear, step-by-step instructions—even beginners shine
- Offers versatility with lasagna ideas for adding vegetables, swapping meats, or going vegetarian
- Preps ahead easily—assemble lasagna casserole recipes in advance and bake when ready
- Feeds a crowd and stays delicious as leftovers, making it perfect for big dinner planning
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Italian |
| Prep Time: | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 1 hour |
| Total Time: | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Dietary: | Contains gluten |
| Serves: | 6–8 |
| Best Served: | Warm |
Ingredients
- 12 sheets homemade lasagna noodles – Fresh pasta for tender texture
- 1½ lb ground beef – Hearty protein and savory flavor
- 1 small onion, diced – Aromatic sweetness
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Bold depth; learn more about garlic’s benefits on Wikipedia
- 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes – Rich, tangy base; packed with lycopene antioxidants (Healthline)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Intensified tomato flavor
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Earthy Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Gentle heat (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential seasoning
- 2 cups ricotta cheese – Creamy layer balance
- 1 large egg – Binds cheese mixture
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Sharp, nutty accent; details on Parmesan (here)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melty, golden topping
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped – Bright herb garnish; learn about basil on Wikipedia
Homemade Lasagna
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, Parmesan, half the basil, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1/2 cup of sauce in a 9×13″ baking dish. Layer noodles, 1/3 of the meat sauce, half the ricotta mixture, and 1/2 cup mozzarella. Repeat layers once more, then finish with noodles, sauce, and remaining mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help set the layers.
- Garnish with remaining chopped basil.
- Cut into squares and serve warm.
Notes
How to Make the Recipe
Follow these simple steps to build layers of flavor in your homemade lasagna.
Step 1: Cook the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef with onion until no pink remains. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Prepare Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, half the basil, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Preheat & Assemble
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread ½ cup sauce in a 9×13″ baking dish. Layer 3 noodles; top with 1/3 sauce, half the ricotta mixture, and ½ cup mozzarella. Repeat layers once more, then finish with remaining noodles, sauce, and mozzarella.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15 more minutes until cheese bubbles and browns.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Let lasagna rest 10 minutes out of oven to set layers and make slicing neat.
Step 6: Garnish
Sprinkle remaining basil over the top for fresh color and aroma.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Cut into squares and plate each with a spatula, ensuring layers stay intact.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use no-boil noodles to save prep time and absorb sauce deeply
- Simmer sauce longer if you prefer deeper, concentrated flavors
- Drain excess grease after browning beef for a lighter casserole
- Let the lasagna rest—rushing this step leads to a runny layer
- For extra creaminess, swirl a little béchamel or extra ricotta on top
How to Serve Homemade Lasagna
Elevate your lasagna experience with these serving suggestions.
- With a crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread for a classic Italian spread
- Alongside roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil and herbs
- With a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for brightness
- Paired with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for extra earthiness
- With antipasto platter of olives, cured meats, and cheese
- Alongside warm focaccia brushed with garlic butter
- With a glass of Chianti or sparkling water with lemon
- Served on individual plates for cozy family-style dining
- As part of a buffet for gatherings—keeps warm in chafing dish
- Garnished with shaved Parmesan and fresh basil for each slice
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Cool completely before refrigerating in airtight containers for up to 4 days
• Layer sheets of parchment between slices to keep portions intact
• Store sauce separately if you prefer firmer pasta
• Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through
Freezing
• Assemble and freeze unbaked lasagna covered in foil for up to 3 months
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator before baking
• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers
• Reheat from frozen, covered, at 375°F (190°C) for 45–50 minutes
Reheating
• Reheat slices in microwave on medium power to preserve texture
• Warm in oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying
• Add a splash of sauce or broth to revive moisture
• Sprinkle extra cheese and bake uncovered for 5 minutes to refresh crust
FAQs
What are the health benefits of beef and tomatoes?
Lean ground beef provides iron and complete protein for muscle health, while tomatoes supply lycopene antioxidants that support heart health and reduce inflammation.
Can I substitute ground beef?
Yes—ground turkey or Italian sausage work well. For vegetarian lasagna, swap beef for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and lentils.
How can I add flavor without extra calories?
Boost taste by stirring fresh herbs—basil, oregano, parsley—into sauce. Use roasted garlic and red pepper flakes for depth without added fat.
Can I meal prep Homemade Lasagna?
Absolutely—assemble in advance and refrigerate up to a day before baking, or freeze for longer storage, then bake when ready for a hassle-free meal.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Lasagna proves that classic comfort can be simple, flavorful, and entirely your own. With homemade lasagna noodles, rich beef sauce, and creamy cheese layers, this dish brings families together around the table. Whether you follow this beef lasagna recipe exactly or adapt with your favorite lasagna ideas, every bite celebrates real-food satisfaction. Enjoy the process of layering, baking, and sharing—this lasagna becomes better with each reheated serving and warms hearts as much as stomachs.
