Easy to Make Lasagna Recipe: A Deliciously Simple Italian Classic

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich, cheesy layers of a classic lasagna. If you're searching for an easy to make lasagna recipe tha……

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich, cheesy layers of a classic lasagna. If you're searching for an easy to make lasagna recipe that will impress your family and friends without requiring hours in the kitchen, you've come to the right place! This recipe combines simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds sing.

### Ingredients You'll Need

To create this mouthwatering lasagna, gather the following ingredients:

- **Lasagna noodles**: 12 sheets (no-boil or regular)

- **Ground beef or Italian sausage**: 1 pound

- **Onion**: 1 medium, finely chopped

- **Garlic**: 2 cloves, minced

- **Tomato sauce**: 2 cups

- **Crushed tomatoes**: 1 can (28 ounces)

- **Ricotta cheese**: 15 ounces

- **Mozzarella cheese**: 3 cups, shredded

- **Parmesan cheese**: 1 cup, grated

- **Egg**: 1 large

- **Italian seasoning**: 2 teaspoons

- **Salt and pepper**: to taste

- **Fresh basil**: for garnish (optional)

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your lasagna cooks evenly and comes out bubbly and golden.

2. **Cook the Meat**: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.

3. **Prepare the Sauce**: Stir in the tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. **Mix the Cheese Filling**: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This creamy mixture will add richness to your lasagna.

5. **Layer the Lasagna**: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of noodles topped with meat sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.

6. **Bake to Perfection**: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

7. **Let It Rest**: Once out of the oven, allow the lasagna to rest for about 15 minutes. This waiting period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice.

8. **Serve and Enjoy**: Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot. Your guests will be begging for seconds!

### Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This easy to make lasagna recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out the meat for vegetables to create a vegetarian version, or use different cheeses based on your preference. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator and can be frozen for later use.

### Conclusion

With its layers of flavor and comforting textures, this easy to make lasagna recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this lasagna will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in one of Italy's most beloved dishes!