Lasagna is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug—layers of rich pasta, savory sauce, melted cheese, and a hint of herby goodness all coming together in a delicious, satisfying bite. This easy lasagna recipe is the perfect way to make this comforting classic at home without all the fuss, but still full of flavor.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a cozy dinner, this recipe is a winner every time. I’m excited to share how to make it just right!

Easy Lasagna Recipe
Easy Lasagna Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Easy Lasagna Recipe

  • Simplicity: No complicated steps—just layers of love.
  • Hearty and filling: It’s a complete meal with pasta, meat sauce, and cheese.
  • Customizable: Whether you want to go all out with the traditional version or swap in vegetables for a lighter take, you can adapt it to your taste.
  • Make ahead friendly: Lasagna holds up beautifully when prepped in advance, so it’s great for busy nights or meal prepping.

Lasagna doesn’t have to be a weekend project; with this recipe, you can enjoy it any day of the week.


Ingredients for Easy Lasagna

Here’s the simple list of ingredients you’ll need to create this classic dish:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
  • 1 small onion (chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 24 oz jar of marinara sauce (or homemade, if you prefer)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 9 lasagna noodles (boiled and drained, or use no-boil noodles)
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

I like to use a jar of marinara sauce to save time, but homemade sauce is a great option if you have a little extra time to spare!


How To Make Easy Lasagna

How To Make Easy Lasagna
How To Make Easy Lasagna

Let’s walk through the steps together to make sure your lasagna turns out just right.

Step 1: Prepare the meat sauce.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to come together.

Step 2: Cook the lasagna noodles.
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 3: Prepare the cheese filling.
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley (if using). Mix until smooth and well-combined.

Step 4: Assemble the lasagna.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat with another layer of noodles, ricotta, and sauce. For the final layer, add the last three noodles, top with the remaining sauce, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can either grease the foil or use non-stick spray). Bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Let it rest.
Once out of the oven, let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.


Pro Tips for Perfect Lasagna

  1. Use no-boil noodles: If you’re short on time, no-boil lasagna noodles work great and save you the step of boiling them.
  2. Rest the lasagna: Letting it sit for a few minutes after baking helps everything come together for easier slicing and serving.
  3. Layer generously: Don’t be shy with the layers of sauce and cheese—they’re the key to a rich and flavorful lasagna.
  4. Double the recipe: Lasagna freezes well, so make a second batch to enjoy later.

How To Serve Easy Lasagna

Lasagna is hearty and filling on its own, but it’s always nice to add a little extra. Here are some great side options:

  • Garlic bread: Soft, buttery, and perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
  • Green salad: A fresh salad with greens, tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the lasagna.
  • Roasted vegetables: Try roasted zucchini, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts to round out the meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here’s an estimate for one serving (based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: ~400
  • Protein: ~25g
  • Carbs: ~35g
  • Fat: ~20g

You can lighten up this recipe by using low-fat ricotta and mozzarella, or swapping in ground turkey for a leaner option.


Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Storage: Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
  • Freezing: Lasagna freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

This Easy Lasagna recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting. The layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce come together effortlessly, creating a meal that’s sure to satisfy.

I hope you enjoy making this as much as I do! Let me know how it turns out and feel free to add your own twist to make it your own. Happy cooking!

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