A waft of rich marinara and melting cheese fills the air, instantly transporting me to my grandmother’s kitchen, where she served her famed Classic Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese. This beloved dish combines layers of gooey mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and hearty meat sauce, making it the ultimate comfort food. What I adore about this lasagna is how it balances simplicity and satisfaction; it’s easy enough to prepare on a busy weeknight and yet special enough for family gatherings. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser that caters to all ages, but it also freezes beautifully, allowing you to savor those cozy flavors anytime. Ready to dive into this delicious Italian classic? Why is This Lasagna Recipe Irresistible? Simplicity: The step-by-step process makes it a breeze for cooks of all levels, ensuring you can enjoy lasagna without the hassle. Creamy Goodness: The ricotta cheese adds a delightful creaminess that perfectly complements the rich meat sauce. Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit for both kids and adults, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with fresh veggies or different cheeses, just like you can with other comforting dishes such as Seafood Lasagna Shrimp or Cheese Steak Homemade. Make-Ahead Friendly: Whether you want to freeze leftovers or prepare it ahead of time, this lasagna holds its flavor wonderfully, perfect for busy weeknights. Crowd-Pleasing Aroma: As it bakes, the tantalizing scent fills your kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around the table and enjoy! Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese To create this comforting Italian delight, you’ll need these ingredients: For the Pasta • Lasagna Noodles – Use oven-ready noodles for ultimate convenience without compromising flavor. For the Meat Sauce • Ground Beef – This adds depth and richness; feel free to swap with ground turkey or a plant-based option. • Marinara Sauce (24 oz) – Opt for store-bought or homemade to layer in flavor. • Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz) – Bring moisture and texture to your meat sauce; no substitutions necessary. For the Cheese Mixture • Ricotta Cheese (1 cup) – Creaminess meets a hint of sweetness; substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter variation. • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups) – Melts beautifully; low-moisture mozzarella gives the best results. • Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup) – Sharpness enhances flavor; consider Pecorino Romano for a bolder taste. • Egg (1) – Binds the ricotta and adds richness; skip it for a dairy-free option. For Seasoning • Italian Seasoning (2 tsp) – Elevates flavors; mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme works well as substitutes. • Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – For sautéing; can be replaced with vegetable oil if needed. • Salt and Pepper – Season to taste for the best flavor. For Garnishing • Fresh Basil or Parsley (optional) – Adds a pop of color and freshness to your lasagna dish. Get ready to indulge in a comforting and satisfying Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese that warms the heart and delights the taste buds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese Step 1: Cook Noodles Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. The noodles should be al dente; drain them and set aside on a clean kitchen towel to cool, making sure they don’t stick together. Step 2: Prepare Meat Sauce In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and sauté until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Carefully drain any excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Allow the meat sauce to simmer for 10 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper during the process to enhance the flavor. Step 3: Prepare Ricotta Mixture In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 beaten egg, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Use a fork to mix these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This mixture will provide a luscious layer in your Classic Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese, contributing texture and flavor while binding the cheeses together. Step 4: Assemble Lasagna Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). To start layering, spread a small amount of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Begin with a layer of noodles, then add half of the ricotta mixture, followed by a layer of mozzarella and a generous portion of meat sauce. Repeat this layering process, finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella. Step 5: Bake Cover the assembled lasagna with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, tempting everyone nearby! Step 6: Let it Rest After baking, remove the lasagna from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. You can garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a bright touch, adding visual appeal to your Classic Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese. Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese Variations Feel free to get creative and customize this comforting dish to suit your taste buds! Cottage Cheese: Swap out ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter, yet just as creamy alternative. Veggie Lasagna: Layer in fresh spinach or zucchini slices between noodles for extra nutrition without losing flavor. Different Cheeses: Experiment with a blend of provolone and gouda for a unique twist on the classic cheese combination. Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to your meat sauce for a delightful heat that liven up each bite. Mushroom добавляй: Stir in sautéed mushrooms to the meat sauce for an earthy flavor boost. Herb-Infused: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like basil and oregano for a vibrant aromatic experience. Dairy-Free Version: Omit the egg and use a dairy-free ricotta for a creamy texture, ensuring it remains vegan-friendly. Creamy Bechamel: Add a layer of homemade bechamel sauce for an ultra-rich and luxurious touch that elevates your lasagna experience. For more delicious variations, check out Philly Cheesesteak Rolls for a different approach to comforting meals or try a delightful Red Velvet Cake for a sweet finale! Make Ahead Options These Classic Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare your meat sauce and cheese mixture, layer them with the noodles, and cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil before refrigerating. To maintain quality, ensure there’s minimal air contact to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure everything is heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy the same comforting flavors with minimal effort, making dinner a breeze! What to Serve with Classic Ricotta Lasagna There’s nothing quite like creating a beautiful spread that complements the warm, comforting layers of your lasagna, inviting everyone to the table. Crispy Garlic Bread: A classic side, this warm, buttery bread pairs perfectly with lasagna’s saucy goodness, ideal for mopping up every last bite. Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a crunchy contrast, refreshing your palate between rich bites. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies in olive oil and herbs, roasting until caramelized; they bring a nutty sweetness that complements the savory flavors. Italian Antipasto Platter: Create a colorful appetizer with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables. This variety enhances the Italian meal experience beautifully. Wine Pairing: A glass of Chianti or a robust red wine elevates the meal, enhancing the rich flavors of the lasagna and introducing a delightful warmth to each sip. Tiramisu for Dessert: Cap off the meal with this classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone—an indulgent way to end your dining experience. Storage Tips for Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese Room Temperature: For maximum freshness, it’s best to avoid leaving lasagna at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacteria growth. Fridge: Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days; cool completely before refrigeration to maintain optimal texture. Freezer: Wrap portions of lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, perfect for those cozy nights when you crave a warm, comforting meal. Reheating: Reheat frozen lasagna in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. For quicker reheating, use the microwave, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Expert Tips for Classic Lasagna Recipe Perfect Pasta Timing: Ensure noodles are al dente; overcooking can lead to mushy layers in your lasagna recipe with ricotta cheese. Layer Smartly: Start with meat sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking; alternating layers creates a beautiful texture and flavor. Cool Before Cutting: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps maintain clean, defined layers during serving. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using high-quality marinara and fresh cheeses enhances the overall flavor of your lasagna, making it truly irresistible. Customize Wisely: Feel free to add veggies or change up the cheese, but keep portions balanced to avoid overwhelming the comforting flavors. Classic Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese Recipe FAQs What kind of lasagna noodles should I use? I recommend using oven-ready lasagna noodles for ultimate convenience. They don’t require pre-cooking, making the assembly process much faster. You can also opt for traditional noodles if you prefer, just remember to cook them until al dente according to package instructions. How should I store leftover lasagna? To maintain freshness, cool the leftover lasagna completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Heating it gently in the oven helps preserve that delicious texture! Can I freeze my lasagna dish? Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual portions or the entire lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. You can enjoy it for up to 3 months! For best results, label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. What should I do if my lasagna is too watery? If you notice excess liquid in your lasagna, let it rest longer after baking to help the layers set better. You can also drain excess moisture from vegetables or reduce the sauce further before layering. A sprinkle of cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking can help absorb some moisture. How can I make this lasagna recipe dairy-free? To make a dairy-free version of this Classic Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese, substitute the ricotta with a dairy-free alternative, such as tofu blended with nutritional yeast and a bit of lemon juice. Opt for dairy-free cheese in place of mozzarella and Parmesan as well! What fresh ingredients should I consider for enhancing flavor? Using high-quality marinara sauce and fresh cheese significantly boosts the flavor of your lasagna. You can also add layers of fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture. It’s all about creating a balance of comforting flavors! Ultimate Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese for Cozy Nights This Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese combines layers of gooey mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and hearty meat sauce, making it the ultimate comfort food. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 55 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 35 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta1 pack Lasagna Noodles Use oven-ready noodles for ultimate convenience.For the Meat Sauce1 lb Ground Beef Can swap with ground turkey or plant-based option.24 oz Marinara Sauce Opt for store-bought or homemade.14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes No substitutions necessary.For the Cheese Mixture1 cup Ricotta Cheese Can substitute with cottage cheese.2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Low-moisture mozzarella gives the best results.1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Consider Pecorino Romano for bolder taste.1 large Egg Skip for dairy-free option.For Seasoning2 tsp Italian Seasoning Mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme works well.1 tbsp Olive Oil Can be replaced with vegetable oil if needed.to taste Salt and Pepper Season to taste.For Garnishingto taste Fresh Basil or Parsley Optional; adds a pop of color. Equipment Large potLarge skilletMixing bowl9x13 inch baking dishAluminum Foil Method Step-by-Step InstructionsCook Noodles: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and sauté until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain fat, stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper. Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. Assemble Lasagna: Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread a small amount of meat sauce in a baking dish to prevent sticking. Layer noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and meat sauce; repeat, finishing with noodles, remaining meat sauce, and mozzarella. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it Rest: Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg NotesEnsure pasta is al dente to avoid mushy layers. Fresh ingredients are key to enhance flavors. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
