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Thick slice of classic Italian lasagna with creamy layers and savory filling

Best Lasagna Recipe

This Best Lasagna Recipe features layers of rich sauce, creamy ricotta filling, tender no-boil noodles, and plenty of mozzarella and Parmesan for a hearty, comforting family dinner.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Keyword: Best Lasagna Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the Sauce

  • 1 batch Bolognese Sauce or Easy Spaghetti Sauce

For the Ricotta Mixture

  • 1 1/2 lb whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 c freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

To Assemble

  • 9 no-boil lasagna noodles divided
  • 1 1/2 lb mozzarella cheese sliced and divided
  • 1 c freshly grated Parmesan cheese divided
  • Fresh basil for garnish
  • Additional grated Parmesan for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the sauce.

  • Begin by preparing your preferred sauce. You may use either a rich Bolognese sauce or a quicker spaghetti sauce, depending on the time available. Set the finished sauce aside.

Prepare the ricotta mixture.

  • In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and thoroughly combined. Set aside, or cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours if preparing in advance.

Prepare the cheese.

  • Slice the mozzarella cheese and divide it into 3 equal portions, approximately 8 oz each. Grate the remaining Parmesan cheese and set aside for assembly.

Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish.

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly coat the upper edges of a deep 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

Assemble the first layer.

  • Spread 1 c of sauce evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange 3 no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Top with 2 c sauce, 1 portion of sliced mozzarella, and 1/4 c grated Parmesan cheese.

Assemble the second layer.

  • Add another layer of 3 lasagna noodles. Spread another 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles. Top with 2 c sauce, another portion of sliced mozzarella, and 1/4 c grated Parmesan cheese.

Assemble the final layer.

  • Add the final 3 noodles. Spread the remaining ricotta mixture evenly over the top. Cover with 2 c sauce. Sprinkle with 1/2 c grated Parmesan cheese, then top with the remaining mozzarella slices.

Cover and bake.

  • Lightly grease one side of a sheet of foil and cover the lasagna with the greased side facing downward. Bake for 30 minutes.

Uncover and continue baking.

  • Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is lightly golden in spots.

Optional broiling step.

  • For a darker, more browned top, place the lasagna under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Rest and serve.

  • Remove the lasagna from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and additional grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

To make this recipe gluten free, use certified gluten-free lasagna noodles and make sure the sauce you choose is also gluten free, since some jarred sauces and prepared ingredients may contain hidden gluten. Check that your Parmesan, ricotta, and mozzarella are labeled gluten free as well, especially if serving someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. If using a store-bought sauce, always read the label carefully before assembling the lasagna.