Epic Cheesy Lasagna

Why Make This Recipe

Epic Cheesy Lasagna is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. It’s loaded with layers of flavor, cheese, and hearty meat sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, this lasagna recipe is sure to please everyone. Not only is it delicious, but it also allows for easy leftovers. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this lasagna is a favorite!

How to Make Epic Cheesy Lasagna

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12 lasagna noodles
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a separate pot, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses.
7. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce.
8. Layer with 4 lasagna noodles, half of the cheese mixture, and more sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of meat sauce on top.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
10. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

How to Serve Epic Cheesy Lasagna

To serve Epic Cheesy Lasagna, slice it into squares and place it on individual plates. You can add a side salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds a nice touch and enhances the flavors.

How to Store Epic Cheesy Lasagna

If you have leftovers, store the lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3-5 days. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Epic Cheesy Lasagna

• Use a variety of cheeses for a richer flavor.
• Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes before cutting to help it hold its shape.
• Freezing individual portions can be a great way to enjoy lasagna later.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version of this lasagna by replacing the ground beef with diced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Also, using spinach or kale can add more nutrients.

FAQs

1. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles; just follow the package instructions, as they usually require more sauce to cook properly.

2. Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. What can I serve with lasagna?
Garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or sautéed vegetables make great side dishes to serve with lasagna.

Epic Cheesy Lasagna

A classic comfort food packed with layers of flavor, cheese, and hearty meat sauce, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Meat Sauce Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 6 oz can tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• to taste Salt and pepper

Pasta and Cheese Ingredients

• 12 pieces lasagna noodles
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• for garnish Fresh basil

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a separate pot, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses.

Assembly and Baking

1. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce.
2. Layer with 4 lasagna noodles, half of the cheese mixture, and more sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of meat sauce on top.
3. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
4. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use a variety of cheeses. Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes before cutting to help it hold its shape. Freezing individual portions can be a great way to enjoy lasagna later.