If you’re craving comfort food that wraps you in a warm, cheesy hug, you absolutely need to try The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe. This classic Italian masterpiece combines hearty layers of rich sausage tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, all tenderly baked between perfectly cooked noodles. Each bite bursts with rewarding textures and robust flavors that make it a true crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special occasions. Once you make it, this lasagna will quickly become your go-to recipe whenever you want to impress your loved ones with a dish that feels both elegant and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe starts with simple, high-quality ingredients that each play an essential role in creating its unforgettable taste and texture. From savory sausage to aromatic herbs, every component contributes layers of flavor and color that bring this dish to life.
- 1 pound ground Italian pork sausage: Adds a rich, spicy base with meaty depth that enhances the sauce.
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced: Brings sweetness and aromatic balance once cooked.
- 1 clove garlic, minced (1 teaspoon): Infuses every bite with that classic garlic warmth.
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley: A fresh herb note that brightens the overall flavor.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil: Essential for that unmistakable Italian herb scent.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a smooth sauce.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Provides a thick, flavorful tomato base.
- 1 (28-ounce) can tomato sauce: Adds richness and continuity to the sauce.
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, creating luscious layers.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Enhances the ricotta mixture with salty, nutty tones.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried parsley: Used again to season the cheese mixture perfectly.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano: Brings earthy depth to the cheese blend.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (additional): For sprinkling on top and layering flavor.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (additional quantity needed): Ensures that melty, stretchy cheese pull we all love.
How to Make The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Make the Sauce
Start by browning the ground Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat until it’s beautifully caramelized and flavorful. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, letting their aromas fill your kitchen as they soften. Stir in the dried parsley, basil, and sugar, which all work together to transport this sauce into Italian bliss. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, bring everything to a lively boil, then reduce the heat and simmer covered for 45 minutes. This slow simmer allows those flavors to deepen and marry perfectly, creating the heart of this recipe.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
While the sauce simmers, mix together the ricotta cheese, a quarter cup of grated Parmesan, dried parsley, and oregano in a bowl. This combination is going to add the creamy, herbaceous layers that contrast beautifully with the rich meat sauce—trust me, it’s what makes this lasagna unforgettable on every level.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until they are tender yet firm enough to handle. Drain and carefully spread them out flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking—this makes layering much easier later and keeps the noodles tender but intact after baking.
Step 4: Assemble The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of the luscious sauce as the base. Then layer with 3 cooked noodles, 2/3 cup of the creamy ricotta mixture, 1 cup sauce, and 2/3 cup shredded mozzarella. Repeat this layering process two more times, building those glorious layers of flavor and texture. Finish by topping with the remaining noodles, a good layer of sauce, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese to create that golden bubbly crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes to allow all those layers to meld and the cheese to melt beautifully. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes to achieve a perfectly bubbly, golden brown top that signals this masterpiece is ready to come out of the oven.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once baked, let your The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe rest for 15 minutes before cutting. This crucial step lets the layers set and makes serving cleaner and more satisfying, ensuring each slice holds all its cheesy, saucy goodness.
How to Serve The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a gorgeous pop of color and fresh herbal brightness that complements the richness perfectly. For an extra touch, a dusting of grated Parmesan just before serving elevates the flavor and adds a lovely salty bite.
Side Dishes
Since the lasagna is so hearty, lighter sides like a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette work beautifully to balance the meal. Garlic bread or warm, crusty Italian bread is also a fantastic companion—it’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the lasagna family-style on a large wooden board where everyone can scoop out their favorite portion. Alternatively, cut the lasagna into smaller squares and top each with a fresh basil leaf for elegant individual servings at a dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Lasagna leftovers keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors deepen over time, so often the next day tastes even better! Just be sure to cover it well to maintain moisture and prevent the noodles from drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this recipe freezes very well. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or freeze the whole unbaked dish after assembly. Frozen lasagna will last up to 3 months, making it a fantastic option for quick future meals or entertaining.
Reheating
For best results, thaw frozen lasagna overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which usually takes about 25-30 minutes covered with foil. You can also microwave individual portions, but be aware the texture may be slightly softer.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Ground beef works well too, but the Italian pork sausage adds a spicier, more complex flavor that really defines this recipe. If you opt for beef, consider adding some Italian seasoning to mimic that extra flavor punch.
Do I have to precook the noodles?
Yes, cooking the noodles before assembly ensures they are tender and pliable, which helps in layering and baking. Some no-boil noodles exist, but for this recipe, precooking yields the best texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of hearty vegetables. Just cook them well to build a rich, savory sauce base that still satisfies those lasagna cravings.
How do I prevent the lasagna from being watery?
Simmering the sauce for a good 45 minutes helps thicken it up, and drying the noodles carefully after boiling stops excess moisture. Also, don’t overdo the tomato sauce layers—balance is key for that perfect texture.
What cheese makes this The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe?
The combination of creamy ricotta, nutty Parmesan, and stretchy mozzarella is essential. Each cheese brings a unique texture and flavor that together create the luscious layers everyone loves.
Final Thoughts
Trying The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe is like inviting a taste of Italy right into your home, wrapped in comforting layers of love and deliciousness. It’s a dish that’s perfect for sharing, celebrating, and making memories around the table. Once you’ve made it, you’ll see why it’s truly the best—and so will everyone lucky enough to dig in with you. So roll up your sleeves and get ready for a rewarding cooking adventure that ends with pure lasagna joy!
Print
The BEST Layered Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes simmering sauce + 45 minutes baking
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This BEST Layered Lasagna recipe combines a rich, savory Italian pork sausage tomato sauce with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella cheese, layered perfectly between tender lasagna noodles. Baked to bubbly, golden perfection, it’s a classic comforting dish ideal for family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian pork sausage
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 1 clove garlic, minced (1 teaspoon)
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (28-ounce) can tomato sauce
Ricotta Mixture
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
Other Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (additional quantity needed based on layering)
- Lasagna noodles (quantity as needed, about 9-12 noodles)
Instructions
- Make the sauce: In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground Italian pork sausage along with the sliced onion and minced garlic until fully cooked and fragrant. Add dried parsley, basil, sugar, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the sauce simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to develop deep flavors.
- Prepare the ricotta mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, and dried oregano. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well blended and set aside.
- Cook the noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles carefully and spread them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the lasagna: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of the prepared sauce evenly on the bottom. Place 3 cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread 2/3 cup of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then add 1 cup of sauce and sprinkle 2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers twice more, finishing with a top layer of noodles, the remaining sauce, and the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the lasagna: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake covered for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and serve: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest, uncovered, for 15 minutes. This resting period helps the layers set and makes slicing easier. Cut into portions and serve warm.
Notes
- For best results, allow the lasagna to rest before cutting to ensure clean slices.
- You can substitute ground Italian beef or turkey for the pork sausage if preferred.
- Make sure to not overcook the noodles; they should be al dente to avoid mushy texture after baking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for better melting and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
