The easiest lasagna recipe is a classic comfort food made simple, with layers of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, gooey melted cheese, and a flavorful meat or veggie filling. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a big warm hug on a plate, without a bunch of complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
I love this recipe because it takes the stress out of making lasagna. No need to boil noodles ahead of time or fuss over a complicated sauce. I usually use store-bought marinara and just mix in some ground beef or spinach for an extra punch of flavor. It’s a big win on busy nights when I want something hearty but don’t have hours to spend cooking.
When I serve this lasagna, I like to pair it with a simple green salad and a slice of crusty bread. It’s an easy meal that always brings smiles at the table. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good the next day, making it perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner that feels like a special treat but couldn’t be easier to pull together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
No-boil lasagna noodles: These save time and effort since you don’t need to boil them first. If you can’t find no-boil noodles, regular ones work too—just boil them according to package directions before layering.
Ground beef: I like using lean ground beef, but you can swap it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian dish.
Ricotta cheese: This gives creamy texture. Cottage cheese is a good substitute for a lighter option, just blend it until smooth for the best texture.
Mozzarella & Parmesan cheese: These provide that classic melty, cheesy topping. You can try provolone or cheddar for a twist, but mozzarella is key for the gooey melt.
Marinara sauce: Using a good-quality jarred marinara keeps this recipe quick. You can add extra garlic or herbs if you want a more homemade touch!
How Do I Layer Lasagna for the Best Texture and Flavor?
Layering is what builds that delicious mix of flavors and textures in every bite. Here’s a simple way to get it right:
- Start with a thin layer of sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Add noodles evenly to cover the sauce.
- Spread a creamy layer (ricotta mix) next to keep it moist.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella to melt and bind layers together.
- Add a hearty layer of meat sauce to bring bold flavor.
- Repeat 2 more times, ending with noodles, sauce, and cheese on top for a golden crust.
Cover the dish with foil while baking to keep moisture in, then uncover near the end for a bubbly, golden cheese finish. Letting it rest after baking helps everything set so it slices nicely. Patience here means perfect, tidy pieces on the plate!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering and baking the lasagna evenly.
- Large skillet – to cook the ground beef and sauce together easily.
- Mixing bowl – to combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan smoothly.
- Aluminum foil – covers the dish during baking to keep moisture in and prevent drying.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and spreading layers cleanly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage or ground turkey to change the meat flavor and texture.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms between layers for extra veggies and earthiness.
- Mix fresh basil or oregano into the ricotta for a fresh herb twist.
- Try different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a creamier or sharper taste.
The Easiest Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Lasagna:
- 9 no-boil lasagna noodles
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz/680g) marinara or pasta sauce
- 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lasagna recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time, including cooking the meat and mixing the cheese filling. Then, bake covered for 25 minutes, followed by 20-25 minutes uncovered until bubbly and golden. After baking, it’s best to rest it for 10-15 minutes before serving. Altogether, plan on about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with minced garlic (if using) until browned and fully cooked. Break up the meat as it cooks, then drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, and season with salt and pepper to your taste.
2. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place 3 no-boil lasagna noodles evenly over the sauce. Spread a third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle about two-thirds cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Spoon a third of the meat sauce over the cheese layer. Repeat these layers two more times: noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and meat sauce.
For the final layer, place the last 3 noodles, top them with the remaining meat sauce, then sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
4. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in. Bake for 25 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 20-25 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
5. Rest and Serve:
Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps the lasagna set and makes it easier to slice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if you’d like. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, easy homemade lasagna!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Lasagna?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the beef first for even cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave before browning it in the skillet.
Do I Need to Boil the Lasagna Noodles Before Baking?
Nope! This recipe uses no-boil noodles that cook perfectly in the sauce’s moisture during baking, saving you prep time and extra pots.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna in your baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
How Should I Store and Reheat Leftover Lasagna?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For oven reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
