Print

Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese

Comforting homemade lasagna with ricotta cheese

This classic Italian lasagna features creamy ricotta cheese layered with rich tomato sauce and tender pasta sheets, perfect for a comforting family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until translucent.
  4. Add ground beef or sausage to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  5. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
  7. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
  8. Layer 4 noodles over the sauce, then spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle with one-third of the mozzarella cheese and then add more meat sauce.
  9. Repeat layering two more times, finishing with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan on top.
  10. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  11. Let lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce.