This lasagna recipe with ricotta is a cozy, comforting dish that’s packed with layers of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, melted cheese, and creamy ricotta that adds a wonderful smooth texture. The combination of gooey mozzarella and flavorful ricotta makes every bite melt in your mouth. It’s a classic that’s perfect for family dinners or any time you want a hearty, satisfying meal.
I love making this lasagna when I want something that feels special but is still easy to prepare ahead of time. One tip I’ve learned is to mix fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the ricotta to give it a fresh pop of flavor. It really makes a difference and makes the whole dish taste like it just came from an Italian kitchen.
My favorite way to serve this lasagna is with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and fills the room with warmth and happy smiles. Plus, leftovers are even better the next day, so I always look forward to enjoying it again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: This is the star that makes the lasagna creamy and smooth. If you can’t find ricotta, try cottage cheese for a similar texture but less richness. Mixing in an egg helps it hold its shape well.
Ground Beef: I use regular ground beef for a juicy flavor, but ground turkey or plant-based meat can work too. Just adjust seasoning as needed since turkey is milder.
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional boiled noodles are great, but no-boil noodles save time and work well if you layer enough sauce. Whole wheat noodles add fiber and are a healthier option.
Mozzarella & Parmesan Cheese: Mozzarella melts into a gooey topping, while Parmesan adds sharpness. You can swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade. Tomato sauce is key for moisture and flavor; if it’s thick, add some water to keep the lasagna from drying out.
How Do You Assemble Layers So Your Lasagna Holds Together Perfectly?
Layering is what makes lasagna delicious and neat. Here are some tips:
- Start with a thin meat sauce layer on the dish to stop noodles from sticking.
- Use 3-4 noodles per layer, overlapping slightly to cover the base.
- Spread ricotta mixture evenly to avoid big clumps. You can spoon it and gently smooth it out.
- Add shredded mozzarella right on the ricotta before adding sauce.
- Repeat layers carefully, ending with sauce and cheese on top for a bubbly crust.
- Cover with foil during the first bake to keep it moist, then uncover to brown and crisp the cheese.
- Resting after baking helps the layers set and makes slices cleaner when cutting.
Following these steps will give you a neat, tasty lasagna that slices beautifully and holds all those tasty layers together just right.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling the lasagna noodles without crowding them.
- 12-inch skillet – great for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – just the right size to layer your lasagna and bake evenly.
- Mixing bowl – for blending ricotta, egg, and cheeses smoothly before layering.
- Aluminum foil – helps keep moisture in during baking and prevents cheese from burning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to add a spicy, savory kick.
- Add sautéed spinach or kale to the ricotta for extra vitamins and a green boost.
- Mix in fresh basil or oregano into the ricotta for a fresh herb flavor.
- Try layering with grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a veggie-packed version.
How to Make Classic Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles and Sauce:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
- Olive oil for cooking
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, 50 minutes to bake, plus 10-15 minutes to rest before serving. So, plan for roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy your delicious lasagna.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and lay them on a lightly oiled tray to prevent sticking while you prepare the rest.
2. Make the Meat Sauce:
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Drain excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Then remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, half the Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley (if using). Mix well and season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place 3-4 cooked lasagna noodles on top. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle a third of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta. Add a layer of meat sauce over the cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times (noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, meat sauce).
5. Finish and Bake:
Top with a final layer of noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Cover the dish with foil (spray foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking). Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then uncover and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Rest and Serve:
Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Can I Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles Instead of Regular Noodles?
Yes, you can! Just skip boiling them beforehand and layer them straight into the dish. Make sure your sauce is a bit saucier to help the noodles cook fully during baking.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftover Lasagna?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of water before reheating in the oven helps keep it moist.
Can I Make Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble your lasagna and cover it tightly with foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be cold.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese is a good substitute. For a creamier texture, blend it first or mix with a little sour cream or cream cheese.