Make-Ahead Freezer Lasagna is a recipe that started as a way to save time during my busiest weeks. I remember the first time I made Make-Ahead Freezer Lasagna—it was a Saturday evening, and my kitchen smelled of tomatoes, garlic, and cheese. I was preparing for a hectic week, juggling family dinners and work deadlines. I thought, “Why not make a dish I can freeze and enjoy later?” Little did I know this simple idea would become a staple in my home.
Perfect for Busy Days
Whenever life gets chaotic, I turn to Make-Ahead Freezer Lasagna. It’s comforting to know I can pull a homemade meal out of the freezer and have dinner ready in no time. The beauty of this dish is in its layers—rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and tender pasta sheets. It feels like giving my future self a gift, especially on nights when cooking feels like a chore.
A Recipe for Togetherness
Make-Ahead Freezer Lasagna has a way of bringing people together. Whether it’s a family movie night or a gathering with friends, this dish is always a hit. I love how it fills the house with the smell of slow-simmered sauce and melted cheese. It’s not just food; it’s an invitation to sit, share, and enjoy each other’s company. Even my kids get involved, sprinkling mozzarella and helping to assemble the layers.
A Freezer Full of Comfort
The best part about Make-Ahead Freezer Lasagna is how it makes me feel prepared. I often make a few batches at once, wrapping them tightly and labeling them with a marker. There’s something deeply satisfying about opening the freezer and seeing those ready-to-bake trays lined up. It’s like having a little bit of love stored away for whenever we need it most.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Make-Ahead Freezer Lasagna
- Layering Tip: When assembling the lasagna, avoid overloading layers to maintain a balanced texture. Evenly spread sauces and cheese for a cohesive flavor in every bite.
- Prevent Noodle Curling: After boiling the noodles, lay them flat on parchment paper or wax paper instead of stacking them to avoid curling or sticking.
- Freezing Recommendation: To ensure the lasagna freezes well, allow the assembled dish to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap and foil to prevent condensation and freezer burn.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or oregano to the marinara sauce while simmering for an elevated Italian flavor.
- Crispy Cheese Top: For an extra golden and crispy top layer, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Extra Depth: Add a splash of red wine to the marinara sauce while simmering to deepen the flavor.
- Time Management: Prepare all components (noodles, meat sauce, cheese mixture) in advance and store them in the fridge, then assemble the lasagna when you’re ready.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the sausage for a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Kid-Friendly Tip: If you’re cooking for picky eaters, use mild Italian sausage and finely chop any added veggies to incorporate them seamlessly.
Make-Ahead Freezer Lasagna
8
portions25
minutes1
hour600
kcal1
hour25
minutesDiscover the ultimate convenience with our Make-Ahead Freezer Lasagna! This hearty, cheesy delight is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prepping enthusiasts. Layered with savory Italian sausage, rich marinara, and creamy ricotta, it’s a comforting dish that families adore. Whether you’re cooking tonight or planning ahead, this lasagna delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. Embrace the ease and satisfaction of a homemade classic that freezes beautifully, ensuring delicious meals are always on hand. Get ready to impress your taste buds and simplify your dinner routine!
Ingredients
- Pasta
10 oz lasagna sheets *
1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- Meat Sauce
1 lb ground Italian-style sausage
24 oz tomato-based marinara sauce
- Cheese Mixture
3 cups full-fat ricotta cheese
2 large farm fresh eggs
2 tbsp dried parsley flakes
2 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- Toppings
1 lb shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Preparing Noodles – Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna sheets and cook according to package instructions, typically around 10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles using a colander and gently toss them with extra virgin olive oil to prevent sticking. Lay the noodles flat on paper towels to cool for about 5 minutes.
- Cooking the Meat – While the noodles are cooking, heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground Italian-style sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the sausage is thoroughly browned and fully cooked, approximately 8 minutes. If necessary, drain excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the tomato-based marinara sauce and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mixing the Cheese – In a large mixing bowl, combine the full-fat ricotta cheese, farm fresh eggs, dried parsley flakes, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Whisk the mixture until it is smooth and well blended, ensuring all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This creamy blend will add richness to your lasagna layers.
- Assembling the Lasagna – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of an 8×8-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. Arrange three lasagna noodles over the sauce, tucking the edges underneath to create a secure base. Spread one-quarter of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by one-quarter of the meat sauce. Sprinkle one-sixth of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a gooey, cheesy layer.
- Layering and Baking – Repeat the layering process: add another three lasagna noodles, spread another quarter of the ricotta mixture, followed by one-sixth of the mozzarella and another quarter of the meat sauce. Conclude with a final layer of three noodles, the remaining mozzarella, and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For immediate serving, place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes until the lasagna is bubbly and the top is golden brown. To prepare for later, cover a second casserole dish with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months.
- Reheating Instructions – When ready to enjoy the frozen lasagna, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. After thawing, remove the plastic wrap but keep the foil intact. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the lasagna for 55-65 minutes until it is heated through and bubbling around the edges. If baking directly from frozen, extend the baking time to 75-90 minutes, ensuring it remains covered with foil to retain moisture.
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet
- casserole dish
- colander
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 600kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Potassium: 700mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 35g
- Vitamin A: 800IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 300mg
- Iron: 5mg
FAQs-Make-Ahead Freezer Lasagna
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, no-boil noodles work perfectly! Ensure there is enough sauce to cover the layers completely, as the noodles will absorb the moisture while baking.
How long can I keep this lasagna in the freezer?
Properly wrapped and sealed, this lasagna can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Always label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the Italian sausage with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version.
How do I prevent the cheese from over-browning?
Cover the lasagna with foil during most of the baking time and uncover it for the last 10 minutes to get the cheese melted and slightly golden.
What’s the best way to reheat individual slices?
For individual portions, microwave on medium power for 3-4 minutes, or reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to retain texture and flavor. Add a little marinara sauce to keep the lasagna moist.
