Lasagna is a classic dish loved by many, and for good reason! It brings together layers of delicious flavors and textures that can satisfy any hungry diner. This Easy Lasagna Recipe uses no-boil noodles, making the cooking process smoother and quicker. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
You might wonder why make this lasagna. First, it is simple and quick to prepare, thanks to the no-boil noodles. Second, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients. Lastly, this comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, bringing warmth and delight to your kitchen table. With this recipe, you can create a homemade masterpiece without all the fuss.
How to Make Easy Lasagna
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ pound sweet Italian sausage
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 48 ounces spaghetti sauce (your favorite sauce)
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley (or 4 tablespoons freshly snipped)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- 12 lasagna noodles
- ¼ cup water
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Spray a 9×13 casserole dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and sausage together. Drain any excess fat. Add the minced garlic and spaghetti sauce, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta, 2 cups of the mozzarella cheese, eggs, ½ cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- To assemble, spread ¾ cup of sauce on the bottom of the baking pan. Place 3 uncooked lasagna noodles on top. Add ⅓ of the cheese mixture and ¼ of the sauce.
- Repeat the layers (noodles, cheese, sauce) two more times. Finish with 3 noodles on top, the remaining sauce, and the last cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. If your sauce is thick, add ½ cup of water around the edges of the pan.
- Spray a sheet of aluminum foil with cooking spray. Cover the baking dish with the aluminum foil, sprayed side down. This keeps the cheese from sticking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Let the lasagna stand for 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
How to Serve Easy Lasagna
Slice the lasagna into squares and serve it hot on plates. You can accompany it with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can add a nice touch.
How to Store Easy Lasagna
To store leftover lasagna, allow it to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. You can also freeze lasagna for longer storage, and it will last for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer. Be sure to let it thaw before reheating.
Tips to Make Easy Lasagna
- Make sure to let the lasagna rest before cutting. This helps it hold its shape.
- Use a variety of cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture for added nutrients.
Variation
You can easily modify this lasagna recipe. Substitute the ground beef and sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also make it vegetarian by adding layers of roasted vegetables or using lentils instead of meat.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna the day before, cover it, and keep it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving.
Can I use different sauces?
Absolutely! Use any spaghetti sauce you like—homemade, store-bought, or even pesto for a twist.
How do I know when the lasagna is done?
The edges should be bubbling, and the cheese should be melted and slightly golden. A knife inserted in the center should come out hot.
This Easy Lasagna Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. With its straightforward steps and delicious results, you can make it any day of the week! Enjoy!
Easy Lasagna
Ingredients
Meat Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Choose lean beef for a healthier option.
- ½ pound sweet Italian sausage You can also use turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
Sauce and Cheese Ingredients
- 48 ounces spaghetti sauce (your favorite sauce) Use homemade or store-bought.
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese) Ricotta is traditional, but cottage cheese can be a lighter alternative.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Reserve 1 cup for topping.
- 2 large eggs Helps hold the cheese mixture together.
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese Reserve some for topping.
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley Or 4 tablespoons freshly snipped.
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
Lasagna Noodles
- 12 pieces lasagna noodles No-boil type.
- ¼ cup water To add moisture if sauce is thick.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and spray a 9×13 casserole dish with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and sausage together. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the minced garlic and spaghetti sauce to the skillet, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Cheese Mixture
- In a large bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, eggs, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Assembly
- Spread ¾ cup of sauce on the bottom of the baking pan.
- Place 3 uncooked lasagna noodles on top.
- Add ⅓ of the cheese mixture and ¼ of the sauce.
- Repeat the layers (noodles, cheese, sauce) two more times.
- Finish with 3 noodles on top, the remaining sauce, and the last cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- If your sauce is thick, add ½ cup of water around the edges of the pan.
- Cover the baking dish with a sheet of aluminum foil sprayed side down.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Let the lasagna stand for 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
