Easy Lasagna Recipe

This Easy Lasagna Recipe is my go-to when I want a classic, comforting meal without all the fuss. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese, it’s everything I love about homemade lasagna—just simplified for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it uses pantry staples, doesn’t require any complicated prep, and still gives me that homemade lasagna flavor I crave. It’s hearty, cheesy, satisfying, and always a hit. Plus, it makes great leftovers, so I can enjoy it all week long or freeze some for later.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained (or use oven-ready noodles)

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage)

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 egg

• 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat:

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the Meat Sauce:

2. In a large skillet, I brown the ground beef with the chopped onion over medium heat.

3. Once the meat is cooked through, I add garlic and cook for another minute.

4. I drain the fat, then stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I simmer for 5–10 minutes.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

5. In a bowl, I mix the ricotta cheese with the egg and half of the Parmesan. I stir until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Lasagna:

6. I spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

7. I lay down 3 noodles, then top with ⅓ of the ricotta mixture, a layer of meat sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella.

8. I repeat the layers two more times, finishing with the remaining sauce and the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Bake:

9. I cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

10. I remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

11. I let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Serve:

12. I garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8 servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

• Calories: Around 500–550 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes switch the ground beef for ground turkey or a veggie mix if I want a lighter option. For extra richness, I mix some cream cheese into the ricotta layer. If I want a spicier version, I use spicy Italian sausage and a pinch of red pepper flakes. And when I’m short on time, I use oven-ready noodles to skip boiling.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I microwave individual slices or warm the whole pan in the oven at 350°F until hot. This lasagna also freezes well—I wrap it tightly and freeze either baked or unbaked. When I’m ready to eat, I thaw it overnight and bake as usual.%

FAQs

Can I use oven-ready lasagna noodles?

Yes, I use them all the time when I want to skip boiling. I just make sure there’s enough sauce to soften the noodles as it bakes.

What’s the best cheese for lasagna?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are my go-to cheeses. I also love using ricotta for the creamy layer, but cottage cheese can be a great substitute too.

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Definitely. I assemble it a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to bake. It’s a great make-ahead meal for guests or busy nights.

Is it okay to freeze this lasagna?

Yes, it freezes beautifully. I freeze it baked or unbaked, tightly wrapped in foil. When I’m ready to use it, I thaw overnight and bake until hot and bubbly.

How do I keep the lasagna from being watery?

I let the meat sauce simmer to reduce excess liquid, and I always let the lasagna rest after baking so it sets up before slicing.

Conclusion

This Easy Lasagna Recipe is my ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and layered with flavor. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but satisfying enough for a special occasion. Whether I’m feeding a family, prepping meals ahead, or just craving something hearty, this lasagna never lets me down.