As I deftly layered the ricotta and mozzarella, I couldn’t help but think how this homemade gluten free lasagna brings everyone to the table. Bursting with savory meat sauce and rich cheeses, this recipe embraces the essence of Italian comfort food without compromising dietary needs. In just a little over an hour, you’ll create a flavor-packed dish that satisfies cravings and makes fussy eaters swoon. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, ensuring that you have a hearty meal ready whenever life gets hectic. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into the joy of crafting the World’s Best Gluten Free Lasagna together! Why is this Gluten Free Lasagna special? Bursting with Flavor: Each layer is filled with a rich meat sauce, gooey cheeses, and aromatic herbs that create a mouthwatering experience. Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and no-boil noodles, this dish comes together effortlessly for any home cook. Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time, and store it for busy nights when you crave comfort food without the hassle. Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses for a personalized twist—endless options await! Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at family gatherings or cozy dinners, and watch it disappear as everyone falls in love with every bite. If you’re in the mood for more comforting meals, take a look at my favorite Easy Lasagna or explore a decadent Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp for a luxurious treat! Homemade Gluten Free Lasagna Ingredients For the Meat Sauce • Sweet Italian Turkey Sausage – Adds richness and spice; substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. • Lean Ground Beef – Provides hearty protein and flavor; can be replaced with ground turkey for a lower fat version. • Onion (minced) – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce; substitute with shallots if preferred. • Garlic (crushed) – Enhances flavor; for a stronger taste, use fresh minced garlic. • Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz can) – Forms the base of the meat sauce; Tuttorosso is recommended for its flavor. • Tomato Paste (12 oz can) – Thickens the sauce and adds richness; homemade tomato paste can also be used. • Tomato Sauce (15 oz can) – Complements the crushed tomatoes. • Water (1/2 cup) – Helps achieve the right sauce consistency. • Sugar (2 tablespoons, optional) – Balances acidity in tomatoes; omit for a savory version. • Dried Basil Leaves (1.5 teaspoons) – Adds traditional Italian flavor; fresh basil is a great substitute. • Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon) – A blend of herbs for flavor. • Salt (2 teaspoons) – Enhances flavor; adjust according to taste. • Ground Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon) – Adds slight heat and flavor. • Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Brings freshness to the sauce and ricotta layer. For the Cheese Mixture • Ricotta Cheese (16 oz) – Provides creaminess to the layers; cottage cheese is a lighter alternative. • Egg (1) – Binds the ricotta mixture; omit for a dairy-free variant. For Assembling the Lasagna • Barilla Gluten Free Oven-Ready Lasagne Noodles (12 noodles) – Base for structure; ensure gluten-free certification. • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1.5 cups) – Provides the gooey cheese layer; dairy-free cheese works for a vegan option. • Grated Parmesan Cheese (3/4 cup) – Adds sharpness; nutritional yeast can be a vegan-friendly substitute. This homemade gluten free lasagna brings a wholesome taste that delights everyone at the table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Gluten Free Lasagna Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the sweet Italian turkey sausage, lean ground beef, minced onion, and crushed garlic. Stir occasionally for about 7-10 minutes until the meats are browned and the onions are tender. Drain any excess grease, then add in the optional sugar, dried basil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley, stirring well to combine all the flavors for your homemade gluten free lasagna. Step 2: Simmer the Sauce Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water into the meat mixture. Stir everything together to create a hearty sauce, then allow it to simmer on low for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You want the sauce to thicken slightly and bubble gently, signaling it’s ready for layering. Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Cheese Mixture In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, remaining chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the ricotta mixture while you prep the layers, ensuring that it’s cool and easy to spread when assembling your gluten free lasagna. Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna In a 9×13 inch baking dish, begin by spreading 1.5 cups of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer three gluten-free lasagna noodles evenly over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta cheese mixture. Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Continue stacking layers in the same order: sauce, noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella. Step 5: Repeat the Layers Repeat the layering process one more time, ensuring to finish with the remaining meat sauce on the top layer. You want the final layer to be crowned with a generous amount of the remains mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. This will create that delicious, bubbling cheese crust once baked. Step 6: Bake the Lasagna Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the assembled lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, but allow that lovely crust to form on top. Step 7: Let It Rest Once baked, remove the homemade gluten free lasagna from the oven, and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. The aromas will have everyone eagerly anticipating their first bite of this comforting dish. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Cut the lasagna into squares and serve warm alongside a fresh salad or gluten-free garlic breadsticks. Your family and friends will love the rich layers and cheesy goodness, making mealtime a delightful experience. Dive into the heart of Italian comfort food with this delicious homemade gluten free lasagna! Make Ahead Options This Homemade Gluten Free Lasagna is perfect for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the meat sauce and ricotta mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. You can also assemble the entire lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days—just cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), uncover the lasagna, and bake for 45 minutes to an hour until bubbly and golden. This way, you can enjoy a comforting, homemade meal without the last-minute rush! Expert Tips for Homemade Gluten Free Lasagna Noodle Choice Matters: Use high-quality gluten-free noodles like Barilla to ensure the right texture and avoid mushiness during baking. Flavor Boost: Don’t skip on the herbs! Fresh basil and parsley elevate the sauce, giving your homemade gluten free lasagna a fresh, aromatic touch. Rest for Perfection: Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 15 minutes after baking; it helps the layers set for easier slicing and serving. Customize With Veggies: For a nutritious twist, layer in sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini, allowing for delicious flavors that please everyone. Storing Made Easy: Plan ahead—this lasagna stores well in the fridge for 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months, making busy nights stress-free. What to Serve with World’s Best Gluten Free Lasagna Creating a complete meal is a delightful way to enjoy the rich flavors of Italy while tantalizing your taste buds. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast, making every bite of lasagna feel light and balanced. The creamy Caesar complements the gooey cheese beautifully. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks with a hint of garlic are perfect for mopping up any delicious sauce left on your plate. They bring an irresistible crunch and aroma to the table. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, roasted until caramelized, add a lovely sweet-savory twist that pairs well with the savory lasagna. Sauté some zucchini and bell peppers for vibrant colors and flavors. Italian Night Cap: Pair with a light red wine, such as Chianti, that enhances the hearty flavor of the dish. The wine’s acidity balances the richness of the cheese and meat. Tiramisu: End the meal on a sweet note with a classic Italian dessert that melts in your mouth. Creamy layers of mascarpone and cocoa are a luscious finish. Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green side adds a nutritious touch and a mild flavor that complements the rich lasagna. Simply seasoned, it adds color and crunch to your meal. Italian Sausage & Peppers: The savory, spicy sausage paired with sweet bell peppers offers an additional meaty option that will appeal to all diners. Serve on a bed of sautéed onions for a touch of sweetness. How to Store and Freeze Homemade Gluten Free Lasagna Fridge: Store leftover homemade gluten free lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. Freezer: Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: To reheat frozen lasagna, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for approximately 30-40 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent burning, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to crisp the cheese. Layer Preservation: If freezing before baking, assemble the layers and wrap tightly, then bake directly from frozen for about an hour, adding extra baking time if necessary. Homemade Gluten Free Lasagna Variations Feel free to get creative with your homemade gluten free lasagna! With these tasty twists, every bite can take on a new personality. Vegetarian Delight: Replace meat with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and mushrooms for a vibrant, meat-free version. Each layer will burst with color and flavor! Dairy-Free Option: Swap ricotta and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives for a vegan version that still delivers that creamy texture. Enjoy all the indulgence without the dairy! Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or Italian sausage seasoning to the meat sauce for an exciting heat that warms your heart. Just the right amount of spice will make each bite memorable. Herb Garden: Enhance flavor with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, in addition to basil. The aroma of fresh herbs will elevate your dish to a whole new level. Cheese Lovers: Mix ricotta with feta cheese for a salty twist that complements the sweetness of the tomato sauce beautifully. Your cheese fanatics will thank you! Extra Saucy: For a juicier lasagna, include an additional layer of your favorite tomato sauce on each level. It will soak into the noodles, creating a rich, moist delight that everyone will rave about. Whole Grain Boost: If gluten isn’t a concern, use whole grain lasagna noodles for added fiber and a nutty taste that pairs perfectly with the classic flavors. Slow Cooker Convenience: Consider preparing a slow cooker gluten free lasagna! Layer all ingredients in your crockpot for a hands-off approach, resulting in a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for a veggie-packed feast or a creamy, cheesy indulgence, these variations are sure to inspire your next family dinner! For more culinary inspiration, check out my scrumptious Seafood Lasagna with Shrimp or a classic Lasagna Cozy Nights to keep those comfort food cravings satisfied. Homemade Gluten Free Lasagna Recipe FAQs How do I know when the tomatoes are ripe for my sauce? Absolutely! For the best flavor in your lasagna, choose tomatoes that are vibrant in color and free from dark spots or blemishes. If you’re using canned crushed tomatoes, go for brands known for their richness in flavor, like Tuttorosso, which will elevate your homemade gluten free lasagna. How should I store leftover lasagna? Very simply! Store any leftover homemade gluten free lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you choose to freeze it, wrap servings tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use freezer-safe containers where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Can I freeze homemade gluten free lasagna? Yes, indeed! To freeze, assemble the lasagna as directed but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes or until heated through. Just make sure to check the middle is bubbly! What can I do if my sauce is too watery? No worries, this happens! If you find your sauce is watery after simmering, add a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste to thicken it up. Simmer a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, simmering longer can also deepen the flavors in your homemade gluten free lasagna, making it even more delicious! Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan? Absolutely! You can opt for plant-based substitutes like dairy-free cheese for the mozzarella and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. For the ricotta, substitute with a blend of blended silken tofu, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice. This way, everyone can enjoy a comforting slice of your homemade gluten free lasagna, regardless of dietary restrictions! Is there a version of this lasagna that I can prepare in advance? Very much so! You can prepare your homemade gluten free lasagna a day in advance, covering it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigeration. Just make sure to remove it from the fridge for 30 minutes before baking to ensure it cooks evenly. By preparing it ahead of time, you can enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions! Enjoy cooking your homemade gluten free lasagna! Savor the Comfort of Homemade Gluten Free Lasagna Tonight This homemade gluten free lasagna is a flavor-packed dish that satisfies cravings while accommodating dietary needs. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrResting Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meat Sauce1 lb Sweet Italian Turkey Sausage Adds richness and spice; substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.1 lb Lean Ground Beef Provides hearty protein and flavor; can be replaced with ground turkey for a lower fat version.1 medium Onion (minced) Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce; substitute with shallots if preferred.2 cloves Garlic (crushed) Enhances flavor; for a stronger taste, use fresh minced garlic.28 oz Crushed Tomatoes Forms the base of the meat sauce; Tuttorosso is recommended for its flavor.12 oz Tomato Paste Thickens the sauce and adds richness; homemade tomato paste can also be used.15 oz Tomato Sauce Complements the crushed tomatoes.0.5 cup Water Helps achieve the right sauce consistency.2 tablespoons Sugar Optional; balances acidity in tomatoes; omit for a savory version.1.5 teaspoons Dried Basil Leaves Adds traditional Italian flavor; fresh basil is a great substitute.1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning A blend of herbs for flavor.2 teaspoons Salt Enhances flavor; adjust according to taste.0.25 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adds slight heat and flavor.2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped) Brings freshness to the sauce and ricotta layer.For the Cheese Mixture16 oz Ricotta Cheese Provides creaminess to the layers; cottage cheese is a lighter alternative.1 large Egg Binds the ricotta mixture; omit for a dairy-free variant.For Assembling the Lasagna12 noodles Barilla Gluten Free Oven-Ready Lasagne Noodles Base for structure; ensure gluten-free certification.1.5 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Provides the gooey cheese layer; dairy-free cheese works for a vegan option.0.75 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds sharpness; nutritional yeast can be a vegan-friendly substitute. Equipment Dutch oven9x13 inch baking dish Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the sweet Italian turkey sausage, lean ground beef, minced onion, and crushed garlic until browned and onions are tender, about 7-10 minutes.Drain any excess grease, add the optional sugar, dried basil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley, stirring to combine.Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Stir together and simmer on low for about 20 minutes.In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, remaining chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly.In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread 1.5 cups of meat sauce on the bottom, layer with three noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, and then ½ cup of mozzarella.Repeat the layering, finishing with meat sauce and a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan on the top layer.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 45 minutes.Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.Let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing to help the layers set.Cut into squares and serve warm, alongside a fresh salad or garlic breadsticks. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesThis homemade gluten free lasagna is freezer-friendly, allowing for meal prep ahead of time. Customize with your favorite veggies or herbs. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
