Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making homemade lasagna from scratch, especially when it’s loaded with creamy ricotta cheese and rich tomato sauce. This easy homemade lasagna recipe with ricotta cheese is a comforting classic that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special family gatherings.

this Recipe

You’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or meal prepping for the week, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Uses simple, accessible ingredients you probably already have.
• Ricotta cheese adds creamy, rich texture without being heavy.
• Layered with flavorful meat sauce for a hearty meal.
• Perfectly baked for golden, bubbly cheese on top.
• Feeds 8, ideal for family dinners or leftovers.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious homemade lasagna layered with ricotta cheese and savory meat sauce.

• 12 oz lasagna noodles, no-boil or regular
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Calories: Approximately 420 per serving

How to Make Easy Homemade Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta Cheese

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until browned and fragrant, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer the meat sauce for 10 minutes to meld flavors.
4. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, parsley, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well and season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer 4 noodles over the sauce, spread one-third of the ricotta mixture, then one-third of the meat sauce, and sprinkle with one-third of the mozzarella.
6. Repeat layers two more times: noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Finish with a final layer of noodles topped with remaining meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set for easy serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use no-boil noodles to save time and ensure tender pasta layers.
• Drain cooked meat well to avoid watery sauce.
• Allow lasagna to rest before serving for cleaner slices.
• Use fresh herbs when possible for brighter flavor.
• For extra richness, add a layer of shredded mozzarella between ricotta and meat sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover lasagna covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Reheat refrigerated lasagna in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until warmed through, about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead, keep it refrigerated, and bake it just before serving. This helps the flavors meld and saves time on the day of your meal.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese works as a good substitute, though the texture is a bit different. For a creamier option, blend cottage cheese until smooth before using.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Simply omit the ground beef and replace the meat sauce with a robust vegetable marinara or sautéed mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian lasagna.

How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?

Drain excess liquid from cooked noodles and meat. Be sure to simmer sauce to thicken it before layering. Also, avoid over-saucing each layer to maintain a perfect texture.