World’s Best Lasagna

Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food—layers of rich, meaty sauce, creamy ricotta, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly tender pasta. This tried-and-true recipe is packed with flavor and bakes up beautifully every time. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving a hearty meal, this homemade lasagna is guaranteed to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Incredible Flavor – A slow-simmered meat sauce makes all the difference.
• Perfectly Layered – Each bite is the perfect balance of sauce, cheese, and pasta.
• Feeds a Crowd – Great for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

Ingredient Notes

• Ground Beef & Italian Sausage – A mix of both adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• Crushed Tomatoes & Tomato Paste – A combination of both creates a thick, flavorful sauce.
• Onion & Garlic – Essential for building a deep, savory base.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary brings authentic Italian flavor.
• Ricotta Cheese – The creamy layer that makes lasagna extra luscious. You can substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
• Mozzarella & Parmesan – Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives the perfect gooey topping.
• Lasagna Noodles – Boil them until al dente, or use oven-ready noodles for convenience.
• Egg – Helps bind the ricotta mixture for a creamy, structured layer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Boil the noodles until just al dente (slightly firm). Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.

4. Assemble the Lasagna

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the ingredients in this order:

1. Meat sauce – A thin layer to prevent sticking.
2. Noodles – Slightly overlapping.
3. Ricotta mixture – Spread evenly.
4. Mozzarella cheese – A generous handful.
5. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of sauce and cheese.

5. Bake the Lasagna

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

• Simmer the Sauce Longer – A longer simmer deepens the flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Let it Rest Before Slicing – This prevents a runny lasagna and helps hold its shape.
• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Side – Serve with garlic bread and a fresh Caesar salad.
• Wine Pairing – A bold red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully.
• Leftovers Idea – Reheat slices and serve with a fried egg on top for a fun twist!

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Assemble the lasagna, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes! Cottage cheese works well, just blend it for a smoother texture.

Do I have to boil the noodles?
If using oven-ready noodles, you can skip boiling—just add extra sauce to keep them soft.

Final Thoughts

This world’s best lasagna is packed with rich, comforting flavors and is truly a show-stopping dish. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this homemade recipe will always be a hit. Try it and let me know how it turns out!

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