Cheese Lasagna
Layers of tender lasagna noodles, creamy ricotta filling, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. A timeless Italian-American comfort food that's perfect for a family dinner.
For 8 servings
6 steps. 50 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preheat Oven and Prepare Filling
- b.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- c.In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten eggs, chopped parsley, 1/2 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- d.Mix until thoroughly combined. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Begin Assembling the Layers
- b.Spread 1.5 cups of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking.
- c.Arrange a single layer of no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce. Overlap them slightly if needed.
- d.Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles.
- e.Top with 1.5 cups (about one-third) of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Continue Layering
- b.Spoon another 1.5 cups of marinara sauce over the mozzarella.
- c.Arrange a second layer of noodles.
- d.Spread the remaining ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- e.Top with another 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finish and Top the Lasagna
- b.Place the final layer of noodles on top.
- c.Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the noodles, spreading it to cover them completely.
- d.Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and the remaining 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Bake the Lasagna
- b.Spray the underside of a large piece of aluminum foil with cooking spray to prevent the cheese from sticking, then cover the baking dish tightly.
- c.Bake for 30 minutes.
- d.Carefully remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling at the edges.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
- c.This crucial step allows the layers to set, ensuring clean, beautiful slices. Serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the creamiest filling, use whole milk ricotta cheese. Part-skim works but is less rich.
- 2Shred your own mozzarella from a block. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly.
- 3Don't skip the resting step! It's crucial for the lasagna to hold its shape when served.
- 4For a classic Italian touch, add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg to the ricotta mixture.
- 5You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate, then add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.
- 6Lasagna freezes beautifully. Bake as directed, cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole pan for later.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meat Lasagna
Brown 1 lb of ground beef or Italian sausage with diced onion and garlic. Drain the fat and add it to the marinara sauce before layering.
Vegetable LasagnaVegetable Lasagna
Add a layer of sautéed vegetables like spinach (squeezed dry), mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers on top of the ricotta mixture.
White Lasagna (Lasagna Bianca)White Lasagna (Lasagna Bianca)
Substitute the marinara sauce with a creamy béchamel or Alfredo sauce for a different, equally delicious flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese provides a substantial amount of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Excellent Source of Calcium
Dairy products like ricotta and mozzarella are packed with calcium, which is vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting proper nerve and muscle function.
Comfort Food for Well-being
Enjoying a comforting, satisfying meal like lasagna can have positive effects on mental well-being, reducing stress and providing a sense of satisfaction and nostalgia.
Frequently asked questions
A typical slice of this cheese lasagna (approximately 375g) contains around 650-750 calories, primarily from the cheese, pasta, and sauce. The exact number can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.