Easiest Lasagna Ever

$To make the easiest lasagna ever, you need some key items. Here is what you will need: - 9 lasagna noodles (choose no-boil or regular, cooked al dente) - 2 cups creamy ricotta cheese - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus some for extra topping if desired) - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade) - 1 large egg, beaten - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme works well) - Salt and black pepper to taste - Fresh basil leaves for a vibrant garnish These ingredients come together to create a rich and comforting dish. Cheese plays a huge part in lasagna. Each type adds its own magic. - Ricotta cheese: This cheese gives a creamy texture. It also adds richness to the layers. - Mozzarella cheese: This is the star of the show! It melts beautifully and gives that gooey pull we all love. - Parmesan cheese: This cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor. It gives a nice crunch on top when baked. Using a mix of these cheeses makes your lasagna taste amazing! Choosing the right noodles is key for a great lasagna. You have two main options: - No-boil noodles: These are super easy. Just layer them straight from the box. They soak up the sauce while baking. - Regular noodles: If you use these, cook them al dente first. This means they should be firm but not hard. Both types work well in this recipe. Choose what fits your style! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by gathering all your ingredients. You need: - 9 lasagna noodles - 2 cups creamy ricotta cheese - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 large egg, beaten - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs - Salt and black pepper - Fresh basil leaves Next, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key to getting the cheese nice and bubbly later. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, dried herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything blends well. This creamy mix adds richness to your lasagna. Now, let’s build the layers. Pour about 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly. This helps prevent the noodles from sticking. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce in a single layer. Make sure they do not overlap. Next, take half of the ricotta mixture and spread it over the noodles. Now sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella on top. Drizzle with half a cup of marinara sauce. The sauce adds moisture and flavor. Repeat this layering. Place three more noodles down, then add the rest of the ricotta mix, another cup of mozzarella, and another half cup of marinara sauce. For your final layer, add the last three noodles. Cover these with the remaining marinara sauce. Top it off with the last cup of mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese. This will create a tasty golden crust. Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Make sure the foil doesn’t touch the cheese. This keeps the cheese from sticking. Bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and lightly golden. Once done, let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set up better. Serve it with fresh basil leaves on top for a nice touch. To make lasagna prep easy, use no-boil noodles. They save time and effort. You can also buy pre-made marinara sauce. This cuts down on cooking time. Mix your cheeses and herbs in one bowl. It keeps things tidy and quick. For the best melt, use fresh mozzarella. It melts beautifully and tastes great. Grate your Parmesan cheese instead of using pre-shredded. Fresh cheese melts better and adds depth. Cover your lasagna with foil for the first part of baking. This helps the cheese melt evenly without burning. Use a sharp knife to cut your lasagna. This ensures neat slices. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps it hold its shape. Garnish with fresh basil for color and flavor. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal. Pro Tips Perfect Noodle Choice: If you're using regular noodles, make sure to cook them al dente to prevent a mushy lasagna. No-boil noodles can save time and are a great option as well! Cheese Blends: For a richer flavor, consider mixing in some cottage cheese or cream cheese with the ricotta for added creaminess and taste. Layering Technique: Ensure even cooking by layering your ingredients symmetrically. This helps the lasagna cook evenly and makes for beautiful slices. Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time after baking! Allowing the lasagna to sit for 10 minutes helps it set and makes slicing easier without falling apart. {{image_4}} You can easily make this lasagna vegetarian. Start with your favorite veggies. Spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms add great flavor. Sauté them lightly to soften before layering. Mix these veggies into the ricotta, or layer them between the noodles. This adds nutrients and color. You can also use roasted peppers or eggplant for a deeper taste. For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free lasagna noodles. Many brands offer tasty options. Be sure to check the cooking instructions. Some need boiling while others can go straight into the dish. You can also use thin slices of zucchini or eggplant as noodles. This keeps it light and adds a fresh twist. Want to add protein? Ground beef, turkey, or sausage works well. Brown the meat first, then mix it with the marinara sauce. Layer it just like the cheese and veggies. If you prefer plant-based protein, try lentils or crumbled tofu. Both options offer great flavor and texture. You can store leftover lasagna in an airtight container. Let it cool first. Once cool, cover it tightly. This keeps it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to five days. Label the container with the date. This helps you track how long it has been stored. If you want to freeze lasagna, use a freezer-safe dish. Cut it into portions for easy use. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. You can freeze lasagna for up to three months. When ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat lasagna, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the lasagna in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for 25 to 30 minutes. Check if it’s hot all the way through. If you want a bubbly top, uncover it for the last 10 minutes. Enjoy every bite as if it’s fresh from the oven! Yes, you can make lasagna ahead of time. Prepare it up to the baking step. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If you don’t have ricotta cheese, try cottage cheese. Blend it until smooth for a similar texture. You can also use cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Both offer a creamy feel, but they change the taste a bit. Adjust the seasonings to match your dish. Your lasagna is done when the cheese is golden and bubbling. The sauce should be hot and the noodles tender. Insert a knife in the center; it should slide in easily. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers hold together better when you serve it. You now know how to make the easiest lasagna ever. We covered ingredients, steps, and tips. You learned about cheese types, noodle options, and preparing layers. Remember to use variations for different diets. Whether you want to freeze leftovers or reheat, you have the right info. Making lasagna can be fun and simple. Enjoy creating your meal, and don’t stress about perfection. Each bite will be delicious!$

A simple and delicious lasagna recipe that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 35

Total Time 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 8

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

9 noodles lasagna noodles (choose no-boil or regular, cooked al dente)
2 cups creamy ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus some for extra topping if desired)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme works well)
to taste Salt and black pepper
for garnish Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot for baking.
In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, dried Italian herbs, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Pour approximately 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it to create a thin, even layer.
Arrange three lasagna noodles over the sauce, laying them flat without overlapping. This helps ensure even cooking.
Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles, then sprinkle one cup of shredded mozzarella on top. Drizzle half a cup of marinara sauce over the cheese for extra flavor.
Repeat the layering process: Add three more noodles, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture, another cup of shredded mozzarella, and another half cup of marinara sauce.
For the final layer, place the last three noodles atop the sauce, then cover them with the remaining marinara sauce. Finish by generously sprinkling the last cup of mozzarella and all of the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
To bake, cover the lasagna tightly with aluminum foil (ensure it doesn’t touch the cheese to prevent sticking) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and has turned lightly golden.
Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes after taking it out of the oven; this helps it set for easier slicing. Before serving, garnish it with fresh basil leaves to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Notes

Serve in squared portions on individual plates, and drizzle with a bit more marinara sauce if desired. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top can make a striking finishing touch!

Keyword cheese, easy recipe, lasagna, pasta