Classic Lasagna

A timeless Italian classic, this lasagna features layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Classic Lasagna
  • Prep time: 6 minutes
  • Cook time: 26 minutes
  • Total time: 32 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

  • 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
  • 3/4 pound lean ground beef
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 (6 ounce) cans tomato paste
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 16 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 pound shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage, ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess fat.
  2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer, uncovered, for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
  3. Meanwhile, cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Lay flat on parchment paper.
  4. In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
  6. To assemble, spread 1 cup of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread with one-third of the ricotta mixture. Top with 1/4 of the mozzarella cheese and 1.5 cups of meat sauce. Repeat layers two more times.
  7. Top with the remaining 3 noodles, remaining meat sauce, and remaining mozzarella cheese.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Tips

  • Make the meat sauce a day in advance for deeper flavor.
  • Don't overcook the lasagna noodles; they will continue to cook in the oven.
  • Let the lasagna rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese (drained well) or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream can be used as substitutes, though the texture will be slightly different.

How do I prevent the bottom layer from being watery?

Ensure your meat sauce is thick enough and has simmered for at least 1.5 hours to reduce. Also, make sure to drain any excess liquid from the ricotta mixture.