Family-Favorite Lasagna: Layered to Perfection with Rich Flavors
Lasagna is one of those classic comfort foods that never goes out of style, and this recipe truly delivers the World’s Best Lasagna. Layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese come together to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even meal prep. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating a lasagna that’s sure to impress. Get ready to indulge in layer upon layer of deliciousness!
World’s Best Lasagna Recipe
Servings: 12 | Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 500g ground beef
- 500g Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 800g canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 400g canned tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 3 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried basil)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 500g ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Lasagna Layers:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 500g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage. Break the meat into small crumbles, and cook until no pink remains. Drain excess fat, then add the onions and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.
Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Add the sugar, basil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step lets the flavors meld beautifully.
2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent them from sticking together. Lay the noodles flat on a parchment-lined tray.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and nutmeg until smooth. This creamy mixture will give your lasagna that irresistible texture and flavor.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom. Arrange 3 cooked lasagna noodles lengthwise over the sauce. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Repeat the process for two more layers: sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. For the final layer, cover the top with the remaining meat sauce and finish with a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese. Bake for 25 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Let it Rest:
Once out of the oven, let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set, making it easier to serve perfect squares.
Tips for Success:
- Make it ahead: Lasagna tastes even better the next day! You can prepare it in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
- Extra cheesy? Feel free to add more cheese layers if you’re a cheese lover.
- Freezing: This lasagna freezes well for up to 3 months. Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
