Go Back
+ servings
Best Easy Lasagna Recipe

Best Easy Lasagna Recipe: Flavorful Layers for Cozy Nights

Enjoy the Best Easy Lasagna Recipe, a comforting meal featuring effortless layers of flavor that is perfect for busy home chefs.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Lasagna
  • 12 oz Lasagna Noodles Use either traditional or no-boil noodles.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor.
  • ¾ cup Yellow Onion Adds a sweet depth; shallots work well.
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage if desired.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder is a good backup.
  • 48 oz Marinara Sauce Opt for quality store-bought brands.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs such as basil or oregano are alternatives.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley Chopped; consider basil for an Italian twist.
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 1 Egg Serves to bind the ricotta mixture; omit if using cottage cheese.
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Swap it with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
  • 16 oz Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Low-moisture mozzarella provides the best results.
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano is a delightful substitute.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large pot
  • large skillet
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package directions for 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in the ground beef and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned. Drain excess grease.
  4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute. Pour in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg and ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy.
  6. Start layering in a 9x13-inch baking dish with a thin layer of sauce, then noodles, followed by ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers, ending with sauce and mozzarella.
  7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  8. Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This lasagna is make-ahead friendly, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights. Store leftovers effectively for meals throughout the week.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!