Easy and Cheesy Lasagna
A comforting and hearty lasagna made with layers of creamy cheese, seasoned ground beef, and zesty marinara, perfect for busy families seeking a nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 12 oz Lasagna noodles Soft, layered goodness for that hearty texture.
- 1 lb Ground beef or Italian sausage Provides rich flavor and protein that keeps you full.
- 24 oz Marinara sauce Adds tangy sweetness for a delicious sauce base.
- 15 oz Ricotta cheese Creamy filling that complements the meat and noodles beautifully.
- 2 cups Mozzarella cheese Melts nicely, giving that gooey cheese pull everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese A sharp finish that elevates the overall taste.
- 1 large Egg Binds the ricotta, making the layers more stable and creamy.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning Infuses every bite with aromatic herbs.
- 1 tsp Salt Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp Pepper Adds just the right amount of heat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, mixing well. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
Cook/Assemble
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the ground beef.
- Add a layer of marinara sauce and sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat the layering process, finishing with noodles, marinara sauce, and a final sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
- Once cooked, let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help the layers stay intact.
- Cut into squares and serve warm, considering adding a side salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, for an extra touch of flavor.
Notes
For best flavor, let the lasagna sit for a few minutes before serving. Try swapping ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option. Use fresh mozzarella for an even cheesier experience. Cover the lasagna while baking to prevent over-browning. Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition if desired. Store leftovers in airtight containers to keep them fresh.