Lasagna. The word alone conjures up images of warm, cheesy goodness. This Italian classic is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply a cozy night in. The best part? It’s easier to make than you might think! This recipe focuses on simplicity and flavor, making it accessible to even novice cooks.
Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Easy Homemade Lasagna
For the Filling:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Assembly:
12 lasagna noodles
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Make the Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook and stir until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
2. Prepare the Meat Filling:
While the sauce simmers, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
Drain off any excess grease.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook and stir until softened.
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese.
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Layer 3 noodles over the sauce.
Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
Top with half of the remaining meat sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella cheese.
Top with the remaining noodles.
Pour the remaining meat sauce over the top.
Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese and additional Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Let the lasagna stand for 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
Tips and Variations:
For a richer flavor: Use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
Add vegetables: Stir in chopped spinach or mushrooms to the meat filling.
Make it vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with ground vegetables like lentils or mushrooms.
Use different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, fontina, or even goat cheese.
Make it ahead: Assemble the lasagna and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
This easy lasagna recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can create a homemade lasagna that rivals any restaurant version. So gather your family and friends, and enjoy this classic Italian dish!
Remember: Feel free to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to your own taste preferences. The beauty of cooking is in the creativity!
