The easiest lasagna recipe is a classic comfort food made simple! It layers rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, hearty ground beef, tender noodles, and melty mozzarella into a warm, cheesy dish that everyone loves.
I love how this recipe skips any complicated steps but still gives you all the tasty flavors of a traditional lasagna. It’s one of those meals where you can put everything together quickly and then let the oven do the hard work while you relax or catch up on your day.
The best part? It’s perfect for family dinners or when you want to feed a crowd without fuss. I like to make it ahead of time, so the flavors have a little extra time to blend, and then just pop it in the oven when guests arrive. It always brings smiles and seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This gives the lasagna its hearty flavor. If you want a lighter option, try ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute. Both work well!
Marinara sauce: Store-bought sauce saves time here. You can swap it for homemade tomato sauce or use a chunky vegetable sauce to sneak in extra veggies.
No-boil noodles: These cut down on prep time by skipping the boiling step. If you don’t have them, regular lasagna noodles work fine but boil first.
Ricotta cheese: It adds creaminess. Cottage cheese is a good substitute if you want a lighter cheese. Just blend it smoothly before adding.
Mozzarella cheese: This melts beautifully for that classic stretchy texture. You can also use a mix of mozzarella and provolone.
How Do You Layer Lasagna for Even Cooking and Great Flavor?
Layering lasagna right is key for even cooking and balanced flavors. Here’s a simple method that works every time:
- Start with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom to prevent noodles from sticking.
- Add noodles in a single even layer.
- Spoon on some ricotta mixture and spread it with the back of the spoon for even coverage.
- Add meat sauce next, spreading gently to cover the ricotta.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top for gooey cheese in every bite.
- Repeat these layers two more times.
- Top with extra mozzarella and Parmesan for a golden crust.
Cover with foil while baking so the cheese stays moist, but remove the foil near the end for a nicely browned top. Letting it rest after baking helps it set, so slices hold together well.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef evenly and cooking the sauce all in one pan.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – just the right size for layering your lasagna and baking it evenly.
- Mixing bowl – handy for combining the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan with ease.
- Spatula or spoon – useful for spreading the sauce and cheese layers smoothly.
- Aluminum foil – essential for covering the lasagna while baking to keep it from drying out.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to add a spicy, herby kick to your sauce.
- Mix in sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor without changing the classic taste too much.
- Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter, slightly tangy cheese layer.
- Try adding fresh basil or oregano to the sauce for a fresher, more aromatic flavor.
Easiest Classic Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz / 680g) marinara or spaghetti sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)
For The Cheese Mixture:
- 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Assembly:
- 9 oven-ready lasagna noodles (no-boil)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lasagna takes about 15 minutes for preparation and layering, plus 40 minutes baking time. After baking, allow 10 minutes to rest before serving. Overall, plan for about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook The Meat Sauce:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you like.
2. Prepare The Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the egg and half of the Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble The Lasagna:
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer three no-boil noodles evenly over the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then one-third of the meat sauce, and sprinkle with one-third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan on top.
4. Bake:
Cover the dish with foil (to prevent sticking, spray the foil side that touches the cheese with cooking spray). Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
5. Rest and Serve:
Let the lasagna stand for 10 minutes before cutting to help it set. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like, then serve warm. Enjoy your easy, delicious lasagna!
Can I Use Regular Lasagna Noodles Instead of No-Boil?
Yes! If using regular noodles, be sure to boil them according to package instructions before layering. This will prevent the lasagna from being too dry or chewy.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Lasagna?
Yes! Freeze the assembled lasagna (before baking) tightly wrapped in foil and plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
