Classic Sunday Dinner Lasagna
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy some proper comfort food? Our Homemade lasagna recipe is like a warm hug on a plate. It is layered with cheesy goodness and rich flavours that will definitely satisfy your cravings.
Brief Overview
This Italian lasagna recipe is a family favourite, passed down through generations. It’s not a quickie, but worth it. This baked lasagna recipe takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish.
It yields 8 servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
Main Benefits
Honestly, the best thing about this lasagna is the pure, unadulterated joy it brings. Apart from the taste, its hearty, and comforting qualities makes it the best lasagna recipe ever , it is filled with calcium and protein.
It's perfect for Sunday dinners or any special occasion where you want to impress. Plus, you can make-ahead lasagna ! How good is that?
Let’s talk ingredients! You will need ground beef. Specifically for the meat sauce. I prefer using ground beef with a little fat for extra flavour.
Also, some ricotta cheese, it is key for that creamy layer.
The classic lasagna recipe that my nan used to make had simple ingredients. I’ve tweaked it over the years to make it even better.
My secret? A pinch of sugar in the meat sauce to cut through the acidity. Don’t tell anyone!
The homemade lasagna recipe is all about layering deliciousness. Don't get confused about the lasagna layers . Each component works together to create something truly special.
Trust me, your family will thank you.
When my mate, Liam, tried this lasagna, he said it reminded him of his childhood. Honestly, that's the best compliment I could receive.
I can’t wait to share the rest of the secrets. Next time, we will see the ingredients. Let's get cracking!
Time to Assemble Your Lasagna Arsenal!
Right, let’s talk about what you’ll need to make this Homemade lasagna recipe a reality. No need for fancy gear.
This Italian lasagna recipe is all about simple goodness. We are going to make the Best lasagna recipe ever !
Main Ingredients
Here’s the shopping list for your Classic lasagna recipe :
- Ground Beef/Sausage: 1 lb (450g) (or ½ lb (225g) each). Opt for a good quality ground beef, not too lean. A little fat equals flavour! Same applies to sausages, go to the butcher!
- Onion: 1 small (150g) , diced. Any brown onion will do, it makes a difference!
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves (15g) , minced. Fresh is best here, honestly.
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 oz / 794g) can. The Lasagna recipe ground beef can't exist without crushed tomatoes!.
- Tomato Paste: 2 tbsp (30g) . Adds depth to your Baked lasagna recipe meat sauce.
- Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 oz / 425g) can.
- Sugar: 1 tsp (5g) (optional). Balances the acidity trust me!.
- Dried Basil: 2 tsp (4g) .
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp (2g) .
- Ricotta Cheese: 15 oz (425g) (full fat). Lasagna with ricotta cheese is like a warm hug!
- Egg: 1 large . It binds the ricotta.
- Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup (25g) (plus extra). Adds that umami .
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tbsp (5g) .
- Lasagna Noodles: 9-12 (regular or oven ready).
- Mozzarella Cheese: 3 cups (300g) .
I once tried skipping the sugar. Big mistake! The sauce was way too acidic. Learned my lesson!
Seasoning Notes
- Essential Spice Combo: Basil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper. A simple but winning team!.
- Flavor Enhancers: Garlic is your best friend. Don't be shy! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to your meat sauce.
- Quick Subs: Dried parsley works if you're out of fresh. Just halve the amount.
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet: For the meat sauce, of course.
- Pasta Pot: Only if you’re using regular noodles.
- 9x13-inch Baking Dish: Essential for the Lasagna layers .
- Mixing Bowl: For the ricotta mixture.
That’s it! Nothing too crazy. Now you’re all set to start your Easy homemade lasagna ! You can even make-ahead lasagna .
Enjoy the process! It's all about the Comfort food lasagna experience, innit?
Unleash Your Inner Italian Chef: Cooking Up the Best Lasagna Ever!
Right, gather 'round, you lovely lot! We're diving headfirst into comfort food lasagna heaven today. Are you ready to tackle a truly unforgettable Homemade lasagna recipe ? Honestly, nothing beats a Baked lasagna recipe fresh from the oven, especially when the nights are drawing in.
I'll let you in on a few secrets that make this the Best lasagna recipe ever ! I promise you this: with the right technique, even the most novice cook can create this.
Prep Like a Pro: Setting the Stage for Lasagna Greatness
Before we even think about layering, let's get our mise en place sorted. Dice your onion, mince that garlic, and grate your cheeses.
Having everything prepped saves a heap of time and prevents that mid-cook panic. Honestly , that's half the battle won.
Got that classic album on? Let's begin!
Lasagna, Layer by Layer: The Assembly Line of Deliciousness
Right, here's the step-by-step guide to layering like a boss:
- Brown the ground beef (or sausage!). Drain that excess fat.
- Stir in tomatoes, paste, sauce, sugar, basil, and seasoning. Simmer for 20- 30 minutes .
- Mix ricotta, egg, Parmesan, and parsley.
- Boil your lasagna noodles until al dente (unless you're using the oven ready type, smart move!).
- Preheat oven to 375° F ( 190° C) .
- Assemble the lasagna with meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mix, and mozzarella. Repeat!
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for 20 minutes , or until golden and bubbly.
Pro Tips for Lasagna Perfection:
- Don't overcook those noodles! . Slightly undercooked is the way to go for your Italian lasagna recipe ,
- Let it rest! I cannot stress this enough. Give it 15- 20 minutes after baking. It makes slicing so much easier.
- Make it ahead! This lasagna is perfect for making a day in advance. Just assemble, cover, and refrigerate. Add about 15 minutes to the baking time when you're ready to cook.
- You can also freeze this and then eat it at another moment, it is a fantastic make-ahead lasagna.
So, there you have it: a Classic lasagna recipe that's sure to impress. It's got the meaty goodness, the cheesy delight, and that gorgeous baked top.
All you need is some garlic bread and a glass of red, and you're golden. This is going to be your new go-to Easy homemade lasagna .
Enjoy!
Recipe Notes for Your Homemade Lasagna Recipe
Alright, so you’re about to tackle this classic lasagna recipe , eh? Ace! Here's the lowdown on the nitty gritty bits.
Honestly, don't sweat it. It's easier than you think, even if it looks like a mountain of work. I love a good comfort food lasagna .
Serving Up a Slice of Heaven
Plating and Presentation Ideas: Let's face it, lasagna is rustic, innit? But we can tart it up a bit. Once sliced, fan out your square slightly on the plate.
A sprig of fresh basil adds a touch of posh. A dollop of extra ricotta on the side? Chef's kiss!
Complementary Sides or Beverages: Garlic bread is basically law. A simple green salad cuts through the richness. As for drinks, a crisp Italian white or a light bodied red does the trick.
Even a sparkling lemonade works well.
Storage Secrets for Your Best Lasagna Recipe Ever
Refrigeration Guidelines: Got leftovers? No problem. Let the baked lasagna recipe cool completely, then wrap it tightly in cling film. It'll keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure it’s airtight.
Freezing Options (if applicable): This make-ahead lasagna freezes like a dream. Wrap individual slices in foil, then pop them in a freezer bag.
It'll last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions: Oven's best for that crispy top. Pop it in at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
Microwave is quicker, but you might lose the texture.
Tweaking Your Italian Lasagna Recipe
1-2 Dietary Adaptations: Want a veggie version? Swap out the ground beef for roasted vegetables like aubergine, courgette, and peppers. Sorted! For gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna sheets. Simple!
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In summer, use fresh, ripe tomatoes in the sauce. In autumn, add a bit of roasted butternut squash to the ricotta layer for sweetness.
It adds a real depth of flavour.
Lasagna Layers of Nutrition (The Basics)
This easy homemade lasagna is all about balance. It's got protein from the meat and cheese, carbs from the pasta, and vitamins from the tomatoes.
It's proper fuel! Remember portions, though, eh? It’s easy to get carried away.
Right then, that’s it. Have a go at this homemade lasagna recipe and give it your personal twist! It doesn't have to be perfect.
Just have fun and enjoy the process. Honestly, you’ve got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use no-boil noodles for this homemade lasagna recipe?
Absolutely! No-boil (or oven ready) noodles are a great time saver for this Homemade lasagna recipe. Just be sure to use enough sauce to properly hydrate them during baking. If the noodles seem dry after baking, next time add a bit more sauce or a splash of water to the baking dish before layering.
A little extra moisture is your friend.
How can I make sure my homemade lasagna isn't watery?
Nobody wants a soggy lasagna! The key is to reduce moisture content. Make sure to drain any excess fat from your cooked ground meat. Also, drain your ricotta cheese if it seems particularly wet.
Letting the lasagna rest for 15-20 minutes after baking is also crucial, as it allows the layers to set and the sauce to thicken. Think of it like letting a gravy rest to thicken up before serving with your roast dinner!
What's the best way to store leftover homemade lasagna?
Leftover Homemade lasagna recipe stores beautifully. Once cooled, cut into individual portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the fridge for 3-4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze individual slices for up to 2-3 months.
Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. To reheat, you can use the microwave or oven to warm it up.
Can I make this lasagna vegetarian? What are some good substitutions?
Definitely! For a vegetarian version, simply replace the meat sauce with a hearty vegetable sauce. Roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms work brilliantly. You can also add spinach or other leafy greens to the ricotta cheese mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
It's just as comforting and satisfying as the meat version almost as good as a Sunday roast!
I'm watching my calories, are there any ways to make this lasagna healthier?
You can absolutely lighten up this Homemade lasagna recipe! Use lean ground beef or turkey mince, part skim ricotta cheese, and less mozzarella. Load up on vegetables in the sauce adding extra vegetables increases fibre and nutrient content while reducing the reliance on cheese and meat.
Also, consider using whole wheat lasagna noodles to boost the fiber content. Every little change helps!
Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, preparing ahead is a great shout! Assemble the lasagna completely, but don't bake it. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through, and then just bake it in the oven as described in the recipe and enjoy!
It's like batch cooking but way more tasty.
Classic Sunday Dinner Lasagna
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-25g |
| Fiber | 3-5g |
