Go Back
+ servings
Lasagna

Irresistibly Cheesy Lasagna for Ultimate Comfort Food Nights

This homemade lasagna offers an irresistible cheesy goodness packed with nostalgia and comfort, perfect for family dinners and meal prepping.
Print Pin
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: cheesy lasagna, comfort food, family dinner, Freezer-Friendly, Lasagna, meal prep
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Calories: 400kcal

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large pot
  • large skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • medium bowl

Ingredients

For the Noodles

  • 12 pieces lasagna noodles You can use either fresh or dried.

For the Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef Feel free to swap for turkey.
  • 1 lb Italian sausage Choose sweet or hot based on preference.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Flavored oil can enhance taste.

For the Cheese Mixture

  • 25 oz ricotta cheese Adds richness.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Sprinkled on top for a savory finish.

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups marinara sauce Use your favorite or homemade.
  • 15 oz crushed tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning Customize with your own herbs.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon pepper Freshly ground recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic works as well.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Diced onions can add crunch.
  • 1 cup water Adjust for sauce consistency.

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil, then add the lasagna noodles. Cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  • Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the meat. Add crushed tomatoes and water. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
  • In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.
  • In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, layer the noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
  • Allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Letting the lasagna rest is essential for cleaner slices.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 400kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 900mg | Potassium: 600mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 15IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 300mg | Iron: 2mg