The Simple Slim Kitchen 30-day meal planning system
30 DAYS OF MEALS
🍴 MAKE DINNER EASIER
Tired of Figuring Out What to Cook Every Night?
Get 62 simple recipes, a complete 30-day meal plan, weekly shopping lists and easy meal-prep guidance.
Complete Digital System — Just $17
SEE THE 30-DAY MEAL PLAN →
Instant digital access • One-time purchase
Japanese-style chef knife
UP TO 70% OFF
SMART KITCHEN UPGRADE
A Seriously Sharp Chef Knife Without the Premium Price.
Ice-hardened steel, a comfortable control grip, and a sharp edge made for slicing meat, vegetables, herbs and more.
SPECIAL ONLINE DEAL
FROM $24.99 EACH
with select bundle
SEE TODAY'S KNIFE DEAL →
60-day guarantee • Online offer

Classic Lasagna with Ricotta and Marinara Sauce

Classic Lasagna with Ricotta and Marinara Sauce

Classic lasagna is the epitome of comforting family dinners, with its hearty layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, and rich marinara sauce. This classic dish brings everyone to the table, combining a delightful medley of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Get ready to dive into this easy classic lasagna recipe that will have your family asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic lasagna recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a delicious blend of flavors that everyone will adore. It’s easy to make, and the leftovers are even better the next day.

🎁 TEMU $0 KITCHEN GIFTS

6 Kitchen Finds You May Be Able to Get for $0

Temu is currently showing these kitchen products as $0 gifts for eligible app users with qualifying orders. Tap any item below to check the current offer.

🎁 $0 gift availability may vary. Offers shown are for eligible Temu app users with qualifying orders. Tap a product to see current eligibility, pricing and terms.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission when you use links on this page.
  • Comfort Food: A warm, hearty dish that feels like a big hug.
  • Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike.
  • Make Ahead: Easily prepare it in advance for busy weeknights.
  • Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to fit your tastes.
  • Leftover Heaven: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

How to Make Classic Lasagna

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, chopped basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the dish.
  5. Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of marinara sauce (about 1 cup). Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
  6. Repeat the layering process: add 4 more noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, another cup of marinara sauce, and another cup of mozzarella cheese.
  7. Top with the final 4 noodles, the remaining marinara sauce, the remaining mozzarella cheese, and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top.
  8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Allow the lasagna to rest before serving to help it set and make slicing easier.
  • Don’t skip the resting time; this helps to meld the flavors together.

Easy Variations

  • Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms between the layers for extra nutrients.
  • Swap the ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter option.
  • Include cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a meatier version.
  • Use different cheeses such as provolone or gouda for a unique twist.

What to Serve With It

  • A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette dressing.
  • Garlic bread or breadsticks for a crunchy side.
  • Roasted vegetables to complement the meal.
  • A glass of red wine (or sparkling water) for a delightful pairing.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Recipe Card

Classic Lasagna with Ricotta and Marinara Sauce
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients:

  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom.
  5. Layer 4 noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, 1 cup marinara sauce, and 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
  6. Repeat with 4 more noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, 1 cup marinara sauce, and 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
  7. Top with final 4 noodles, remaining marinara sauce, remaining mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
  9. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil.

Notes: Allow the lasagna to rest for better slicing. Customize with vegetables or proteins as desired.

Related Posts

Your Next 30 Days of Meals — Already Planned
The Simple Slim Kitchen
Stop wondering what to cook every night. Get a complete 30-day meal system that makes meals, shopping & prep easier.
✓ 62 Recipes ✓ 30-Day Plan ✓ Shopping Lists ✓ Meal Prep
Get the complete digital system
$37 $17 TODAY
Instant Access  •  One-Time Purchase  •  60-Day Guarantee
GET THE 30-DAY MEAL PLAN — $17
No thanks, continue to CraveFinch.com
Scroll to Top