Lasagna is a beloved, layer-filled classic that brings people together over a comforting plate of cheesy goodness. It’s versatile enough to suit any preference, from hearty meat lovers to veggie enthusiasts.
If you’re a fan of the traditional version with a rich meat sauce or prefer a vegetarian twist brimming with fresh vegetables, lasagna is the go-to dish for gatherings. Let’s explore how to make this crowd-pleaser in a way that ensures every guest leaves satisfied!
Easy Lasagna Recipe
Video by Preppy Kitchen
Ingredients
Traditional Lasagna
- 1 lb ground meat
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 15 oz besciamella (already-bought)
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 12 lasagna noodles
- Fresh basil and oregano
Vegetarian Lasagna
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 24 oz tomato sauce
- 15 oz besciamella (already-bought)
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh basil and oregano
Step-By-Step Recipe
1. Prepare the Ingredients: For traditional lasagna, brown the ground meat and combine with marinara sauce. For vegetarian, sauté vegetables in olive oil until tender.
2. Layer: Start with a layer of sauce at the bottom of a baking dish, then noodles, cheese, and meat or veggies. Repeat.
3. Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 40 minutes. Uncover, and bake another 20 minutes for a golden crust.
4. Cool: Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before serving for best presentation.
Layers of Flavor: The Secret to a Perfect Lasagna
What makes lasagna so great? The answer lies in the layers. The sauce, noodles, cheese, and fillings all work together to create a perfect bite each time. For a traditional lasagna, this means a meaty marinara or bolognese sauce, layered with besciamella, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of parmesan. Vegetarian lasagna, on the other hand, focuses on a mix of hearty vegetables - like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach - and a flavorful tomato sauce, plus plenty of cheese to keep it cozy.
Building the Layers: The Art of Assembly
Start by spreading a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of your baking dish, followed by a layer of noodles (no-boil noodles save time, but traditional ones offer a great texture). Add a layer of cheese mixture and sauce, repeating until you reach the top of the dish. Finish with a generous layer of grated cheese to ensure a bubbly, golden crust. For those making a vegetarian version, don’t skip a sauté for your veggies - this helps release extra moisture, keeping the lasagna from getting soggy.
Baking to Perfection
Cover your lasagna with foil and bake at 375°F for about 40 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes to allow the cheese to brown. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing - this lets everything set, so your lasagna layers hold together beautifully when served.
For a perfect presentation, garnish with fresh basil leaves. Try serving lasagna alongside a simple green salad and garlic bread for a full Italian-inspired meal. The versatility of lasagna means there’s always a version to please every guest - classic or creative, it’s a dish that never fails to delight
