Cheesy Homemade Baked Italian Lasagna with Ricotta
This homemade baked Italian lasagna features layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, making it a comforting and delicious meal. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Servings 8
Calories 400kcal
Ingredients
- 12 pieces lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 12 ounces tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- to taste fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the lasagna noodles in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onion until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground beef or sausage to the skillet, cooking until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layering, finishing with noodles and remaining meat sauce, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
- Let cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serve with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Let the lasagna cool for better slicing.