The Best Homemade Lasagna

The Secret Behind This Classic Lasagna Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-made lasagna. But what sets this classic version apart from the rest isn’t just the layers—it’s the little secrets tucked between them. The heart of this recipe lies in a rich, slow-simmered meat sauce that blends ground beef and Italian sausage for depth and flavor. Adding a splash of red wine and a pinch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the sauce’s complexity.

Another key element is the cheese mixture. Rather than using just ricotta, this recipe calls for a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and freshly grated Parmesan, seasoned with garlic, basil, and a touch of nutmeg to add warmth and aroma. Pre-cooked noodles help the lasagna hold together without turning soggy, and a final sprinkle of mozzarella on top ensures a golden, bubbly crust.

The real secret, though? Letting the lasagna rest after baking. Giving it 15–20 minutes to settle allows the layers to firm up, making it easier to slice and serve. This small step transforms your lasagna from messy to magnificent.

Master these techniques, and you’ll have a lasagna that’s not just classic—but unforgettable.

How to Make Lasagna

Making lasagna from scratch may seem intimidating, but with a bit of preparation and the right ingredients, it becomes a satisfying and straightforward process. Begin by preparing a flavorful meat sauce. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, then brown ground beef and Italian sausage. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, a splash of red wine, and Italian herbs. Let the sauce simmer until thick and rich.

While the sauce cooks, prepare the cheese filling. Mix ricotta cheese with a beaten egg, chopped parsley, a bit of salt, and freshly grated Parmesan. Shred mozzarella and set it aside for layering. If you’re using oven-ready noodles, there’s no need to boil them. Otherwise, cook your noodles according to the package instructions and set them aside to cool.

To assemble, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of your baking dish, followed by noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and repeat. Finish with a generous layer of sauce and cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it rest before slicing. The result: comforting, cheesy perfection in every bite.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

One of the best things about lasagna is how well it keeps—and often, it tastes even better the next day. To store leftovers, allow the lasagna to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store individual portions or larger sections, depending on your needs. Refrigerated, lasagna will stay fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use freezer-safe containers. Frozen lasagna can last up to 3 months without losing quality.

When reheating, you have a few options. For refrigerated portions, microwave on medium power for 2–3 minutes, or until heated through. To keep it moist, cover the lasagna with a damp paper towel while reheating. For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil, for about 25–30 minutes. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight first. Then follow the same oven method, increasing the time as needed until the center is hot.

Proper storage and reheating ensure your leftover lasagna retains its delicious flavor and texture—making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or an easy lunch the next day.

How to Freeze and Reheat Lasagna

Freezing lasagna is a great way to save time and reduce food waste, especially if you’re cooking in bulk or preparing meals ahead. You can freeze lasagna either baked or unbaked—both work well. To freeze an unbaked lasagna, assemble it as usual in a freezer-safe dish, preferably a disposable foil pan. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date and baking instructions, and freeze for up to 3 months.

If you’ve already baked the lasagna, allow it to cool completely before freezing. You can freeze the whole dish or cut it into individual servings. Wrap portions tightly or store them in airtight containers before placing them in the freezer.

To reheat a frozen unbaked lasagna, transfer it directly from the freezer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Keep it covered with foil and bake for 60–75 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10–15 minutes to allow the top to brown. For frozen cooked lasagna, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes.

Proper freezing and reheating means your lasagna will be just as comforting as the day it was made.

Looking for More Great Lasagna Recipes?

If you’ve mastered the classic lasagna and are ready to explore more delicious variations, you’re in for a treat. Lasagna is a versatile dish with endless possibilities, and there’s a version to suit every taste and dietary preference. For a lighter option, try a vegetarian lasagna packed with roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, layered with a creamy béchamel or spinach-infused ricotta. Craving comfort food with a twist? A white chicken lasagna made with Alfredo sauce, mushrooms, and mozzarella is rich, creamy, and completely satisfying.

For those avoiding gluten or meat, consider a zucchini noodle lasagna or a lentil-based version that delivers all the heartiness without the heaviness. You can even find lasagna-inspired recipes like skillet lasagna, lasagna soup, or lasagna roll-ups for quicker weeknight meals.

Don’t forget about regional and international spins—think Mexican lasagna with tortillas and spiced ground beef, or Greek-style moussaka with layers of eggplant and béchamel. The options are as endless as they are delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, experimenting with new lasagna recipes can bring fresh excitement to your dinner table. Explore, adapt, and enjoy every cheesy, saucy layer.

Reader Variations You’ll Love

One of the joys of sharing a beloved recipe like lasagna is seeing how others make it their own. Our readers have come up with creative, tasty variations that add exciting twists while still honoring the heart of the dish. If you’re looking to change things up, these tried-and-true reader favorites are a great place to start.

For a healthier take, many readers swap traditional noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant to create a low-carb, gluten-free version that’s just as satisfying. Others have gone meatless by loading their lasagna with spinach, mushrooms, and a rich tomato basil sauce, perfect for vegetarians or anyone craving a plant-based meal.

If you like bold flavors, try a spicy sausage lasagna with red pepper flakes and a touch of cayenne, or a Tex-Mex variation using seasoned ground beef, salsa, black beans, and pepper jack cheese. Some readers even add a layer of pesto or use a béchamel instead of tomato sauce for a creamy, luxurious finish.

Whether you’re customizing to fit a diet, using ingredients you have on hand, or just looking to experiment, these variations show that lasagna is endlessly adaptable—and always delicious.

The Best Homemade Lasagna

There’s nothing quite like a slice of homemade lasagna, made from scratch with love and layered with flavor. The best homemade lasagna strikes a perfect balance between hearty meat sauce, creamy cheese, tender noodles, and just the right touch of seasoning. It all starts with a rich, slow-cooked meat sauce made from ground beef and Italian sausage, simmered with garlic, onions, crushed tomatoes, and a blend of Italian herbs. A splash of red wine adds depth, while a pinch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

The cheese layer is just as important. A creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and a beaten egg creates a filling that’s flavorful and smooth. Some home cooks like to add chopped spinach or fresh basil for an extra layer of flavor.

Layer everything together—sauce, noodles, cheese—and repeat until your dish is full. Finish with a generous topping of mozzarella and bake until bubbling and golden brown. Let it rest before slicing to help the layers set perfectly.

Homemade lasagna takes time, but the result is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or freezing for later. It’s a true labor of love—and absolutely worth it.

Ingredients

To make the best homemade lasagna, you’ll need a combination of fresh, flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Layer:

• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley or basil

Other:

• 9–12 lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)
• Additional mozzarella and Parmesan for topping

Optional: Spinach, mushrooms, or chopped veggies for added layers.

These ingredients combine to create a flavorful, satisfying lasagna that’s perfect for any occasion.

Method

1. Prepare the Sauce
   In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until softened. Add ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain excess fat.
2. Simmer the Sauce
   Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop flavor.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture
   In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parsley or basil, and half of the grated Parmesan. Mix until smooth.
4. Boil the Noodles
   If not using oven-ready noodles, boil them according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble the Lasagna
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce. Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and more sauce. Repeat layers, finishing with sauce and topping with mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake
   Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve
   Let lasagna sit for 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!