Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe

This easy homemade lasagna recipe is perfect for a satisfying family meal. Layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, tender pasta, and melted mozzarella create a classic dish without complicated steps.

• Keyword Focus: Easy Lasagna Recipe, Homemade Lasagna, Simple Lasagna, Baked Lasagna, Family Dinner.

Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 45-50 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 15 lasagna noodles (not no-boil)
• 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

• 1 cup chopped spinach (thawed and squeezed dry)
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms
• Extra garlic, minced

Equipment:

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl

Instructions:

1. Cook the Meat Sauce: Brown the ground beef (or Italian sausage) in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Cook the Noodles: While the sauce is simmering, cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain them and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir well.
4. Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. Layer: Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce (you may need to overlap them slightly). Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle with some mozzarella cheese. Spoon another layer of meat sauce over the mozzarella.
6. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers: noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and the rest of the meat sauce.
7. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top layer of sauce.
8. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
9. Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna stand for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps it hold its shape.