There’s something about a bubbling, cheesy homemade lasagna that warms the soul and brings everyone to the table. Time-honored comfort food at its best, serving up a slice of this hearty dish is like wrapping your loved ones in a culinary embrace. This recipe for Easy Homemade Lasagna perfectly balances layers of rich meat sauce, velvety cheese, and tender pasta, ensuring each bite is a truly satisfying experience.
**Easy Homemade Lasagna**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
– 1/2 cup water
– 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onions, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring to combine. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread a third of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the lasagna, covering it evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
7. Bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing into generous portions and enjoying with your favorite salad or garlic bread.
This Easy Homemade Lasagna recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a hearty, satisfying meal. The layers of flavors and textures meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s as delicious as it is comforting. Feel free to customize by adding veggies or swapping meats to suit your taste preferences. This classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire of go-to dishes, bringing smiles and full bellies to all who gather around your table.
