If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside, look no further than The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe. This dish combines savory Italian sausage, a rich tomato sauce, and creamy ricotta layers, all nestled between perfectly cooked noodles and topped with golden bubbly cheese. It’s the kind of recipe that turns any gathering into a celebration, and every forkful tastes like homemade love passed down through generations. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become your go-to recipe for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe, and you’ll be amazed at how simple yet essential each element is. From the juicy Italian sausage to the fragrant herbs, each ingredient brings something unique to the table that elevates the flavors and textures to unforgettable heights.
- 1 pound ground Italian pork sausage: Packed with spices, this sausage adds rich, savory flavor and a satisfying depth to the sauce.
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced: Offers a subtle sweetness and aromatic base to build your sauce around.
- 1 clove garlic, minced (1 teaspoon): Brings that unmistakable punch that pairs perfectly with Italian dishes.
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley: Adds fresh, earthy notes that brighten the hearty sauce and cheese mixture.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil: Provides a classic Italian herb aroma that sings in every layer.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances acidity in the tomatoes for a smoother, richer flavor.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Forms the body of the sauce with chunky texture and vibrant color.
- 1 (28-ounce) can tomato sauce: Adds a luscious, velvety texture to the tomato base.
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese: Soft and creamy, offering a luscious, mild contrast to the zesty sauce and sausage.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Infuses a nutty, salty bite that complements every cheesy layer.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried parsley: (for cheese mixture) Adds a hint of herbal freshness to ricotta layers.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano: Provides extra Italian herbal punch to the cheese blend.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping): Melts beautifully, creating the iconic gooey, golden topping everyone loves.
- Lasagna noodles: The foundation of your layers, cooked just right to soak up those flavors.
How to Make The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Make the sauce
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and browning the ground Italian sausage along with the sliced onion and minced garlic. This trio releases amazing aromas that signal the heart of your dish is taking shape. Once browned, stir in the dried parsley, basil, and a touch of sugar – this will balance the acidity of your tomatoes. Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook gently for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld all those flavors together perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the ricotta mixture
While the sauce simmers, mix together ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, dried parsley, and oregano in a medium bowl. This combination makes a wonderfully creamy and flavorful layer that contrasts beautifully with the meaty sauce and melty mozzarella in the final dish.
Step 3: Cook noodles
Prepare the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente. Don’t forget to drain and lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make assembling easier. Tender noodles are key, as they absorb the sauce but still maintain some bite.
Step 4: Assemble the layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by spreading 1 cup of the sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish—this keeps everything from sticking and adds flavor right from the start. Then layer three noodles side by side, followed by 2/3 cup of the ricotta mixture, 1 cup of sauce, and 2/3 cup shredded mozzarella. Repeat these layers twice more, building that delicious structure. Finally, top with the remaining noodles, the last of the sauce, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese for that perfect bubbly finish.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the assembled lasagna with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top melts to golden, bubbling perfection. This two-step baking ensures the layers meld beautifully while giving you a luscious cheese crust.
Step 6: Rest and serve
Once out of the oven, allow the lasagna to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This simple resting time helps the layers set up, making it easier to cut neat portions and keeping every bit intact on your plate.
How to Serve The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and fresh aroma. A light dusting of grated Parmesan on top right before serving can also add a delightful salty touch that layers on extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
Lasagna pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty Italian bread are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Level up your presentation by serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets heated until the cheese bubbles, creating personal, restaurant-style servings. You could also offer an antipasto platter alongside for a festive Italian-style meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover lasagna keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, stored tightly in an airtight container. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or relaxed dinners later in the week.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Frozen lasagna stays good for up to 2 months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge for convenient reheating without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, about 20 minutes for a whole dish or 10-15 minutes for slices. You can also microwave individual portions, but covering loosely with a microwave-safe lid helps keep it moist and melty.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Ground beef works well if you prefer a milder flavor, though Italian sausage adds more spice and depth which makes The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe truly stand out.
Do I need to pre-cook the lasagna noodles?
Yes, cooking the noodles al dente before assembling ensures they soften nicely while baking and prevents any unpleasant chewiness in the final dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! You can omit the sausage and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to keep the layers hearty and flavorful.
What’s the best cheese mixture for the layers?
A blend of ricotta with Parmesan, parsley, and oregano yields a creamy, savory filling that balances the meaty sauce and stringy mozzarella beautifully.
How long can I let the lasagna rest before serving?
About 15 minutes is ideal for the layers to set, but you can let it rest up to 30 minutes if needed; this helps with easier slicing and serving.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about making and sharing The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe. It’s more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of cozy, hearty food made from scratch. Once you experience those perfectly layered bites of sauce, cheese, and noodles, you’ll understand why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen’s hall of fame. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make memories with every savory slice!
Print
The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe features savory ground Italian pork sausage simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, layered with creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses along with tender lasagna noodles, then baked to bubbly perfection. A classic Italian-American comfort dish perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground Italian pork sausage
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 1 clove garlic, minced (1 teaspoon)
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (28-ounce) can tomato sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
Additional Ingredients
- Lasagna noodles, 3 cups cooked noodles (approximately 9-12 noodles based on typical packaging)
- Mozzarella cheese, approximately 2 cups shredded (estimated based on layering instructions)
- Additional 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Make the sauce: In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground Italian pork sausage along with the sliced onion and minced garlic. Once the meat is browned and the onions are soft, stir in dried parsley, dried basil, sugar, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
- Prepare the ricotta mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, and dried oregano. Mix well until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the cheese.
- Cook the noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles carefully and spread them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking while preparing to assemble the lasagna.
- Assemble the lasagna: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer 3 cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, followed by 2/3 cup of the ricotta cheese mixture, 1 cup of meat sauce, and 2/3 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a final layer of noodles, sauce, and mozzarella cheese on top. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top layer.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Rest and serve: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest uncovered for 15 minutes before cutting into portions. This resting time helps the layers set for easier serving.
Notes
- Using Italian pork sausage adds rich flavor; you can substitute with ground beef or turkey if desired.
- For easier preparation, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Letting the lasagna rest before slicing greatly improves the texture and presentation.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
