This lasagna is layers of delight with rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked noodles. Everyone will be asking for seconds—and maybe thirds!
I love how this dish warms up any kitchen. It’s perfect for family gatherings or when you just need a big bowl of comfort food. Grab a fork and dig in! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is a classic base for your lasagna. If you want a leaner option, consider using ground turkey. For even more flavor, turkey sausage could work well too.
Ground Pork: It’s optional but adds richness! If you don’t have pork, you can use all beef or try adding some Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
Cheese Mixture: Ricotta is the star! If you need a dairy-free alternative, consider using tofu blended with nutritional yeast and a bit of lemon juice as a ricotta substitute.
Lasagna Noodles: Regular noodles are great, but you could also use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed!
How Do I Make My Meat Sauce Extra Flavorful?
Creating a rich meat sauce is the heart of great lasagna. You want to simmer it to develop deep flavors. Here’s how to do it:
- Brown the meat well, this builds flavor!
- Add onions and garlic to sauté until soft. Don’t rush—this step is key.
- Incorporate the canned tomatoes and seasonings. Sugar balances the acidity from the tomatoes.
- Let it simmer. Aim for 30 minutes, but if you can let it go longer, it will be even better!
By taking time with your sauce, you’re setting your lasagna up for amazing success!
World’s Best Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 (6 oz) cans tomato paste
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp dried basil leaves
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or 1 tbsp dried parsley flakes
Other:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 16 oz shredded mozzarella cheese (or fresh sliced mozzarella)
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of preparation time, plus 50 minutes of baking time. You’ll need to let it rest for about 15 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld, bringing the total time to about 1 hour and 35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and warm while you prepare the lasagna.
2. Make the Meat Sauce:
In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef and pork over medium heat until they are browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat. Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are softened, about 5 minutes. Now, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Add the sugar, basil, Italian seasoning, fennel seeds (if using), and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for at least 30 minutes; the longer it simmers, the tastier it will be!
3. Prepare the Noodles:
While your sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. After cooking, drain the noodles and lay them flat to prevent sticking together.
4. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Mix well to combine all the ingredients smoothly.
5. Assemble the Lasagna:
To start assembling, spread about 1 cup of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place 4 noodles over the sauce. Then, spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Spoon about one-third of the remaining meat sauce on top. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with a top layer of mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This will help it set and make serving easier! Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, then dish out and enjoy your rich, comforting, and cheesy World’s Best Lasagna!
Enjoy! 🍽️
Can I Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?
Yes, no-boil lasagna noodles can save you time! Simply layer them dry, and they will cook in the sauce during baking. Just ensure there’s enough liquid in your sauce to soften them while baking.
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for ricotta, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth, or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream for a similar creamy texture. Tofu blended with a bit of nutritional yeast also works well for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Lasagna Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and replace it with veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them before assembling the lasagna for great flavor. You can also add more cheese to keep it hearty.