Homemade Lasagne Recipe – Easy & Cheesy!

Are you craving a warm, delicious and easy lasagna recipe that’s the best lasagne and perfect for any occasion? Look no further! I’m excited to share with you my tried and tested homemade lasagne recipe filled with rich meat, a mouth-watering veggie option and an abundance of cheesy goodness. Impress your family and friends and make your taste buds dance with these easy steps towards a classic dinner.

Ingredients for Homemade Lasagne

Preparing a delicious lasagne requires the perfect combination of ingredients. Here are the essential components you’ll need to create a mouth-watering lasagne.

Make sure your lasagna noodles are cooked and drained according to the package directions before using them. If you’re in the UK, be sure to search for “lasagne noodles” as they may have a different name in your area.

Stay tuned for the next section where I guide you through cooking the meat filling for your lasagne.

Cooking the Meat Filling

Creating a flavorful and rich meat filling is a crucial part of making a classic meat lasagna. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

To start, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, stirring occasionally.

Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic, and continue cooking until the onion softens, which should take about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the meat mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens and the flavors meld together.

Once done, turn off the heat and set aside the skillet. Your flavorful and rich meat filling is now ready to be assembled into the lasagne.

Preparing the Vegetables for a Veg Lasagne

As a vegetarian option for your lasagne, preparing the vegetable filling is essential. Choosing the right vegetables with the right texture and flavour will make all the difference in creating a tasty dish.

Begin by washing and prepping the vegetables. Slice 3 large aubergines, 2 large courgettes, 2 large red onions, 3 red bell peppers, and 2 yellow bell peppers. Lightly oil each of your vegetables in turn and roast them at 200C/400F/Gas Mark 6 for 30-40 minutes until cooked through and starting to colour.

In a separate pan, sauté 6 cloves of garlic gently in some olive oil. Add one 400g tin of chopped tomatoes, 2 tsp dried oregano, salt and pepper to taste and simmer for 10 minutes until tender. In a bowl, combine the roasted vegetables with the tomato mixture, stirring gently so as to retain the vegetables’ shape.

To add layers of flavour, you could try adding roasted cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced mushrooms or adding freshly chopped basil. All of these options would complement the roasted vegetables and create a delicious, hearty lasagne.

Vegetable Lasagne Ingredients

With this recipe, you’ll have the perfect vegetable filling for your lasagne. Follow the rest of the recipe and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!

Building the Layers of Flavor

Now that all the components are ready, let’s start building those delightful layers of flavor. The secret to a delicious and traditional lasagna is to ensure the perfect balance of creaminess, tanginess, and texture in each layer. Follow these steps to create the ultimate lasagna:

1. Begin with a layer of meat sauce or vegetable filling, depending on your preference.
2. Add a layer of freshly cooked lasagna noodles on top of the filling.
3. Spread a generous amount of creamy ricotta cheese over the noodles.
4. Cover the ricotta with a layer of thinly sliced mozzarella cheese.
5. Drizzle a layer of tangy tomato sauce over the cheese.
6. Repeat the layers of filling, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and tomato sauce until the dish is full, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.

Once all the layers are complete, it’s time to bake the lasagna. Cover it with foil and bake in the oven at 375°F for about 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

And there you have it – a delicious and traditional lasagna that will impress even the toughest of critics. Stay tuned for the next section on how to assemble and bake your lasagna to perfection.

Assembling and Baking the Lasagne

After preparing all the components, it’s time to assemble and bake your homemade lasagne. Follow these easy steps to get the perfect golden and cheesy top:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 13×9 inch (33×23 cm) baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Spoon a thin layer of the meat or vegetable filling into the bottom of the dish, spreading it evenly.
3. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the filling, slightly overlapping each other.
4. Add a layer of the cheese and sauce mixture, using a spoon or spatula to spread it evenly and covering the noodles completely.
5. Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish, making sure that the final layer is the cheese and sauce mixture. Ensure there is enough cheese and sauce mixture on top, so it creates a golden and bubbly crust.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes to cool and set. This step is crucial to allow the lasagne to set, making it easier to serve.
8. Serve hot, garnish with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy your easy-to-make homemade lasagne!

Tips:

• Make sure to evenly distribute the filling, cheese, and sauce throughout the layers, ensuring that every bite has all the flavors and textures in it.
• Covering the dish with foil for the first half of baking ensures that the noodles cook and soften efficiently.
• Variations to the recipe, such as adding sausage or mushrooms, can increase the flavour complexity of the dish while still being a delicious, cheesy, “comfort food” classic.

Serving and Enjoying the Lasagne

Now that your homemade lasagne is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy it with your loved ones. To take it up a notch, follow these tips to enhance the flavors and presentation:

• Consider serving your lasagne with a side salad made with crisp lettuce, cucumber and cherry tomatoes. This will help balance out the richness of the dish, making it even more enjoyable!
• You can also sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top for an extra hit of cheesy goodness. If you’re a fan of spicy food, add a pinch of dried chilli flakes!
• Another popular accompaniment to lasagne is garlic bread. Simply slice a baguette, spread some garlic butter on it, and bake it in the oven for a few minutes until crispy and golden.

Whatever way you choose to serve your lasagne, remember that presentation is key. Cut it into neat portions and garnish with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for a touch of colour. Pair with a glass of red wine, and you have yourself a delicious and satisfying meal!

Variations and Tips for your Lasagne

If you’re looking to switch things up with your lasagne recipe, there are a few easy ways to do so. Here are some variations and tips to customize your lasagne:

Vegetarian Lasagna

If you prefer a vegetarian option, simply swap out the meat filling for a variety of vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers. Layer your veggies with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture for a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian lasagna.

White Lasagna

If you want to try something different from the classic meat lasagna, consider making a white lasagna. Swap out the tomato sauce for a creamy bechamel sauce and layer with chicken, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese for a delicious and indulgent dish.

Gluten-Free Lasagna

For a gluten-free version, replace the traditional lasagna noodles with gluten-free ones. This is an easy swap that won’t compromise the quality of your dish. You can also use sliced eggplant or zucchini as a noodle substitute.

Make-Ahead Lasagna

If you have a busy week ahead, consider making a lasagna in advance. Prep all the ingredients, assemble the dish, and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake. This way, you can enjoy a homemade lasagna anytime without the hassle of cooking from scratch.

These variations and tips will help you create new and exciting versions of the classic lasagne recipe. Experiment with different ingredients to find your perfect combination!

Variations and Tips for your Lasagne

There are many variations you can make to this lasagne recipe to suit your taste. One of my favourite variations is to make a vegetarian version. Simply substitute the meat filling with a mix of sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You can also add a layer of spinach or kale for extra nutrition and flavour.

If you want to make this recipe even easier, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles. These noodles don’t require any pre-cooking, making the assembly process even simpler. You can also use different types of cheeses such as ricotta, feta, or mozzarella to add more depth of flavour.

To make this lasagne recipe healthier, you can use whole wheat lasagna noodles and reduce the amount of cheese used. You can also add more vegetables to the filling for a more nutritious meal.

If you have any leftovers, you can store the lasagne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave. You can also freeze the lasagne for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven.

I hope these tips and variations inspire you to create your own unique version of this delicious homemade lasagne recipe. Remember, the possibilities are endless!

FAQ

Can I use pre-cooked lasagna noodles for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked lasagna noodles. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking time and adjust accordingly.

Can I make this lasagne in advance and reheat it?

Absolutely! Lasagne actually tastes even better the next day. Simply cover it with foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven at 180°C/350°F for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

Can I freeze the lasagne?

Yes, you can freeze the lasagne. Assemble the lasagne, but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and foil and bake at 180°C/350°F for about 1 hour or until heated through.

Can I make a vegetarian version of this lasagne?

Absolutely! You can easily make a delicious vegetarian lasagne by omitting the meat filling and replacing it with your favorite vegetables. Simply follow the same layering instructions but substitute the meat with vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. While the recipe calls for mozzarella and Parmesan, you can use cheddar, Gruyere, or fontina for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese melts well and complements the other ingredients.

Can I add additional ingredients to the meat filling?

Absolutely! The meat filling can be customized to your taste. You can add ingredients such as onions, garlic, herbs, or spices to enhance the flavor. Just make sure to cook them along with the meat until softened before layering.

Lasagna Recipe

Freya

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 35 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 2 people

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Lasagna noodles about 16 noodles
• 1 pound Ground beef or pork
• 2 cloves Minced garlic
• 1/2 cup Chopped onions
• 28 ounces Canned crushed tomatoes
• 8 ounces Tomato sauce
• 6 ounces Tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Dried basil
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
• 15 ounces Ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large Egg
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley
• 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

 

• To start, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, stirring occasionally.
  1 pound Ground beef or pork
• Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic, and continue cooking until the onion softens, which should take about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  2 cloves Minced garlic
• Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  28 ounces Canned crushed tomatoes, 6 ounces Tomato paste, 1 teaspoon Dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
• Reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the meat mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
• Begin with a layer of meat sauce or vegetable filling, depending on your preference.
• Add a layer of freshly cooked lasagna noodles on top of the filling.
  1 pound Lasagna noodles
• Spread a generous amount of creamy ricotta cheese over the noodles.
  15 ounces Ricotta cheese
• Cover the ricotta with a layer of thinly sliced mozzarella cheese.
  2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Drizzle a layer of tangy tomato sauce over the cheese.
  8 ounces Tomato sauce
• Repeat the layers of filling, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and tomato sauce until the dish is full, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
• Once all the layers are complete, it's time to bake the lasagna. Cover it with foil and bake in the oven at 375°F for about 45 minutes.
• Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 13x9 inch (33x23 cm) baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
• Spoon a thin layer of the meat or vegetable filling into the bottom of the dish, spreading it evenly.
• Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the filling, slightly overlapping each other.
• Add a layer of the cheese and sauce mixture, using a spoon or spatula to spread it evenly and covering the noodles completely.
• Repeat the layers until you reach the top of the dish, making sure that the final layer is the cheese and sauce mixture.
• Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
• Remove from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes to cool and set. This step is crucial to allow the lasagne to set, making it easier to serve.
• Serve hot, garnish with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy your easy-to-make homemade lasagne!

Keyword lasagne recipe