Easy Lasagna Recipe

If you’re looking for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels both homey and impressively hearty, this Easy Lasagna Recipe will quickly become your go-to comfort food. With layers of saucy beef, a trio of melty cheeses, and golden noodles, it brings together everything we love in a classic Italian bake — except it’s simple enough for a busy weeknight and special enough for Sunday supper. Once you make it, you’ll understand why “Easy Lasagna Recipe” is searched for and requested again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s magic in simplicity, and lasagna proves it! Every ingredient in this Easy Lasagna Recipe has its own delicious job, from the robust meaty sauce to the irresistible cheese pull. No fancy tools or fussy components here — just the essentials that create pure lasagna bliss.

• Lasagna noodles (8 oz): Classic noodles that with a quick soak become perfectly tender, giving structure and bite to every layer.
• Ground beef (2 lbs): The hearty base and soul of the sauce — don’t skimp here, as good beef brings richness to every bite.
• Onion (1): Adds savory depth and a hint of sweetness; sautéing it with beef draws out extra flavor.
• Spaghetti sauce (32 oz): The shortcut hero! Choose your favorite jarred sauce for instant Italian aroma and zesty notes.
• Ricotta cheese (16 oz): Brings creamy, mellow richness, balancing out the bolder flavors and giving each layer its signature softness.
• Mozzarella cheese (2 1/4 cups): The ultimate for gooey, stretchy topping — it’s what people dream of when they picture lasagna perfection!
• Grated parmesan cheese (3/4 cup): Sharp and salty, parmesan melts beautifully and creates that crave-worthy, golden top.

How to Make Easy Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Lasagna Noodles

Begin by soaking 9 sheets (about 8 ounces) of lasagna noodles in very hot water. This easy shortcut softens the noodles perfectly while you work on the rest of your ingredients, saving you precious cook time and eliminating the need for boiling.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion

While the noodles soak, heat a large skillet and cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat to avoid a greasy lasagna, then add your chopped onion and sauté for an additional two minutes. This awakens the onion’s sweetness and infuses the meat with extra flavor.

Step 3: Blend in Sauce and Ricotta

Pour the entire jar of spaghetti sauce and all of the ricotta cheese directly into the skillet with your beef and onions. Stir well to combine, then let the mixture heat through until it’s steamy and fully combined. This shortcut melds everything into a thick, luscious filling.

Step 4: Layer the Lasagna

Grab your 13 by 9-inch baking dish and ladle just enough sauce to thinly cover the bottom. Lay down three noodles, then spoon over about 2 cups of the meat sauce, sprinkle with 3/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of grated parmesan. Repeat these gorgeous, cheesy layers two more times for that iconic stacked effect.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Cover your lasagna with foil and bake at 350°F for 45 to 55 minutes. This cozy time in the oven lets the flavors meld and gives you a molten, bubbling top. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you love a crustier cheese topping!

How to Serve Easy Lasagna Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate each generous slice with a scattering of fresh basil, a sprinkle of extra parmesan, or even a touch of cracked black pepper. These finishing touches add freshness, vibrant color, and a hint of something special to your Easy Lasagna Recipe.

Side Dishes

This beloved main doesn’t need much, but a crisp green salad tossed in Italian dressing and some warm garlic bread are absolute classics. Their textures and flavors balance the rich, cheesy lasagna and make any meal feel like an Italian feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking your Easy Lasagna Recipe in individual ramekins for personal servings, or cut into cute squares and serve on a platter for an inviting buffet. Leftovers also make a fantastic hot lunch when layered in a thermos or stacked between toasted bread for a decadent sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your lasagna cool, then cover tightly with foil or transfer slices to airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a delicious grab-and-go meal option for the week ahead.

Freezing

This Easy Lasagna Recipe freezes like a dream. Wrap the whole baked dish or individual squares in plastic wrap and then foil, and stash in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

For oven-fresh flavor, reheat leftovers in a covered dish at 350°F until warmed through (about 20–25 minutes for a big piece). For a speedy single serving, the microwave works too — just cover with a damp paper towel and heat in bursts until hot.

FAQs

Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?

Yes! While ricotta gives that classic texture, cottage cheese works in a pinch and some even prefer its lighter taste. Just drain well before using.

Do I have to use pre-cooked noodles?

Nope! The easy soak method for noodles in this Easy Lasagna Recipe is quick and delivers tender noodles without boiling, saving you time and extra pots to wash.

How can I make this lasagna vegetarian?

Omit the beef and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a medley of your favorite roasted vegetables. Swap in a veggie pasta sauce and follow the rest of the steps as usual.

Can I assemble Easy Lasagna Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can build the lasagna up to a day in advance. Just keep it tightly covered in the refrigerator and bake as instructed when you’re ready. It’s perfect for meal prep or entertaining!

Why is the cheese layer important?

The combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan ensures each bite has creamy stretch, mellow richness, and sharp, salty contrast. It’s what makes this Easy Lasagna Recipe truly irresistible.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll fall in love with this Easy Lasagna Recipe as much as I have! There’s nothing quite like sharing those cheesy, saucy, comforting layers with friends and family. Give it a try next time you want cozy Italian flavor with zero stress — and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new signature dish!

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