Classic Homemade Lasagna That’s Rich, Saucy, and Cheesy in Every Bite

Lasagna is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s rich, layered, deeply satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner, holiday gathering, or Sunday meal with family, this classic lasagna recipe never fails to impress. It’s made from scratch with a flavorful meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and generous layers of gooey mozzarella—baked until bubbly and golden brown.

If you’re looking for a lasagna that’s hearty, cheesy, and completely homemade, this is the one.

Why This Lasagna Works

This lasagna combines three key elements that make it unforgettable:

1. A rich, slow-simmered meat sauce made with crushed tomatoes, beef, onion, and garlic.
2. A creamy ricotta cheese filling blended with egg and Italian herbs.
3. Layers of perfectly cooked pasta sheets and melty mozzarella cheese that tie it all together.

Each bite delivers bold flavor, soft texture, and just the right amount of chew from the pasta. It’s comfort food at its finest.

Ingredients

For the meat sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage (optional, but adds flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)

For the ricotta layer:

• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or basil
• Pinch of salt

Additional layers:

• 9–12 lasagna noodles (boiled and drained, or use oven-ready)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan for topping

Instructions

Make the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef, sausage, and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar. Simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Prepare the Ricotta Filling

In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, herbs, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Set aside.

Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of noodles, followed by a layer of ricotta mixture, a handful of mozzarella, and a generous scoop of meat sauce. Repeat layers (noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, sauce) until the dish is full. Finish with a final layer of noodles, meat sauce, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Bake It

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this helps the layers stay together.

Tips for the Best Lasagna

• Letting it rest is key—it cuts cleaner and holds its shape.
• Add chopped spinach to the ricotta layer for a veggie boost.
• Grate your own mozzarella for best melting results.
• Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for even richer flavor.

Final Thoughts

This classic lasagna is layered with love, flavor, and everything that makes Italian comfort food unforgettable. Serve it with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or just a fork and a smile—because this dish doesn’t need anything else to shine.

Stick around—every visit tastes better than the last at The Buttered Bliss.