“Our Best Lasagna” is a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe features a rich Bolognese sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, all layered with tender lasagna noodles for the ultimate comfort food. The recipe simplifies preparation without compromising taste, making it a must-try classic.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheese Layers:
- 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 1 bag (16 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Assembly:
- 1 box (16 oz) uncooked lasagna noodles

Directions

Prepare the Bolognese Sauce:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Layer the Lasagna:
Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread a thin layer of Bolognese sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer uncooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by more sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat layers, ending with a final layer of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Pair with a fresh salad and crusty Italian bread.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: ~450 kcal
Protein: ~30 g
Carbohydrates: ~35 g
Fat: ~20 g
- Saturated Fat: ~10 g
Sodium: ~850 mg
Fiber: ~4 g

This lasagna recipe is perfect for making ahead and even freezing for future meals. Its rich layers and robust flavors make it a dish that’s sure to impress!

Why This Lasagna Recipe Stands Out

Simplified Preparation:
This recipe keeps things simple without sacrificing taste. Using jarred marinara sauce as the base for the Bolognese sauce saves time, allowing you to focus on assembling the layers and achieving the perfect bake.
Rich Bolognese Sauce:
The Bolognese sauce, made with ground beef, onions, garlic, and classic Italian herbs, is the heart of this dish. Its robust flavors infuse the lasagna with depth and warmth.
Cheese Lover’s Dream:
With layers of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, this lasagna is a cheese-lover’s paradise. Each layer melts into a creamy, gooey perfection that ties the dish together.
Perfect for Any Occasion:
Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a dish for entertaining, this lasagna is versatile enough to suit any occasion. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Make-Ahead Friendly:
This lasagna is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and even frozen for later use. The flavors only improve as they meld together, making it a convenient yet delicious option.

The Art of Layering Lasagna

Achieving the perfect lasagna is all about the layering technique. Here’s why each layer matters:

Bolognese Sauce:
The sauce serves as the flavorful foundation, ensuring the noodles remain moist during baking. Its hearty texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese layers.
Lasagna Noodles:
Uncooked noodles simplify the process and absorb the flavors of the sauce as they bake, resulting in perfectly tender layers.
Cheese Layers:
Ricotta adds creaminess, mozzarella melts into a gooey blanket, and Parmesan provides a sharp, nutty finish. Together, they create a rich and satisfying texture.
Final Cheese Topping:
A generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan on top ensures a bubbly, golden crust that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

Tips for Perfect Lasagna

Use High-Quality Ingredients:
Opt for a flavorful marinara sauce and fresh, high-quality cheese for the best results. These simple upgrades make a noticeable difference in taste.
Don’t Overcrowd the Layers:
Keep each layer even and consistent to ensure the lasagna bakes evenly. Overloading the layers can lead to uneven cooking.
Let It Rest:
Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.
Customize to Your Taste:
Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a nutritious twist. For extra spice, include red pepper flakes in the Bolognese sauce.
Make It Ahead:
Assemble the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate it. This allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in an even more flavorful dish.

Serving Suggestions

Lasagna is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some serving ideas to complete your meal:

Fresh Salad:
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lasagna.
Crusty Bread:
Serve with warm Italian bread or garlic knots to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.
Roasted Vegetables:
Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers make for a colorful and nutritious side.
Wine Pairing:
A bold red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the robust flavors of the lasagna beautifully.

Why Lasagna Is a Comfort Food Favorite

Lasagna is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Its layers of flavor and texture evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth, making it the ultimate comfort food. The combination of hearty meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta is universally loved, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Beyond its taste, lasagna brings people together. Whether it’s shared at a family dinner table, served at a potluck, or enjoyed as leftovers, it’s a dish that fosters connection and celebration.

Customizing Your Lasagna

This lasagna recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to get creative with ingredients and flavors. Here are some customization ideas:

Vegetarian Lasagna:
Replace the Bolognese sauce with a hearty marinara loaded with vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and mushrooms.
Low-Carb Option:
Swap the lasagna noodles for thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a lighter, low-carb version.
Cheese Alternatives:
Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, Gouda, or Fontina for unique flavors.
Spicy Kick:
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the Bolognese sauce for a spicier version.
Herb Infusion:
Sprinkle fresh basil, parsley, or oregano between the layers for added freshness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration:
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
Freezing:
Lasagna freezes exceptionally well. Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Reheating:
To reheat a whole lasagna, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through. For individual slices, use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Conclusion

“Our Best Lasagna” is a testament to the timeless appeal of comfort food. Its rich layers of Bolognese sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella deliver a symphony of flavors that warm the heart and soul. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this lasagna is a reliable choice that never fails to impress.