A Family Tradition
Growing up, my kitchen was always filled with the delicious smell of cooking. My favorite dish was my mom’s classic cheese lasagna. Every Sunday, she would gather the family around the table and cook this amazing meal. I loved to watch her as she layered the noodles, cheese, and sauce, creating something magical. It felt special to be part of this tradition, and I knew I wanted to keep it alive.
Making the Sauce
One Sunday, I decided to make the lasagna myself. I gathered all the ingredients: fresh pasta, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and a rich tomato sauce. Making the sauce was my favorite part. I chopped onions and garlic, then cooked them until they were soft. The smell filled the kitchen and made me feel happy. I added tomatoes, herbs, and spices, stirring everything together. It felt like a warm hug, reminding me of my mom’s kitchen.
Layering the Lasagna
When the sauce was ready, it was time to layer the lasagna. I spread a little sauce on the bottom of a baking dish and placed the noodles on top. Then, I added a layer of ricotta cheese, followed by mozzarella and more sauce. I repeated this process until the dish was full. It was messy but fun! I couldn’t wait to see how it would turn out. As I sprinkled extra cheese on top, I imagined my family gathered around the table, just like in the old days.
A Delicious Reward
Finally, I placed the lasagna in the oven. As it baked, the delicious smell filled the house. I felt proud of myself for keeping our family tradition alive. When it was ready, I pulled it out and let it cool for a few minutes. I served it to my family, and their smiles made my heart soar. Each bite was creamy and cheesy, just like my mom used to make. I realized that food has a way of bringing people together, and my classic cheese lasagna was now part of my story to share with the next generation.
Chef’s Notes-Classic Cheese Lasagna
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Opt for whole milk ricotta and freshly shredded mozzarella for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure to layer the ingredients evenly to ensure every slice has the perfect balance of cheese and sauce. Use a spatula to help spread the cheese mixture smoothly.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for 15-20 minutes after baking. This step helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve without falling apart.
- Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini between layers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- You can prepare the lasagna ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Just cover tightly with foil and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
Classic Cheese Lasagna
4
servings15
minutes1
hour303
kcal15
minutes1
hour30
minutesDive into the world of comfort with this easy-to-make Classic Cheese Lasagna! Layers of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and sharp Parmesan cheeses are perfectly balanced with aromatic Italian herbs, nestled between tender pasta sheets and rich marinara sauce. This lasagna is a timeless dish that will have your taste buds singing with joy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Get ready to enjoy a slice of cheesy heaven!
Ingredients
30 ounces creamy ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
2 large eggs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian herb blend
1 tsp dried parsley flakes
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
26 ounces jarred marinara sauce
1/2 cup water
9 sheets uncooked lasagna pasta
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Cheese Mixture Preparation – In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with 1 1/2 cups of the mozzarella cheese. Add in the eggs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, parsley flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Sauce Preparation – Pour the marinara sauce into a separate medium bowl. Fill the empty sauce jar with water, seal it tightly, and shake well to capture any remaining sauce. Add this water to the marinara and mix thoroughly.
- Layering the Lasagna – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread about 1 cup of the prepared sauce evenly over the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish. Lay down 3 sheets of the uncooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles evenly. Repeat this layering process once more with sauce, noodles, and cheese mixture.
- Finishing Touches – Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the noodles are tender and the top is golden brown. Allow the lasagna to rest for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- For best results, let the lasagna rest before cutting to allow layers to set properly. Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Feel free to add sautéed spinach or mushrooms between layers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 303kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 300mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ-Classic Cheese Lasagna
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes! No-boil noodles are a great option. Just layer them directly in the dish without pre-cooking; they will soften as the lasagna bakes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
How do I know when the lasagna is done?
The lasagna is done when the top is golden brown, the cheese is bubbly, and the noodles are tender. A knife inserted in the center should come out hot.
Can I add meat to this lasagna?
Yes! You can easily add cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey to the marinara sauce for a meaty version. Just ensure it’s well-drained before layering.
What can I serve with lasagna?
Classic sides include garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. Pairing with a simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the lasagna.
