Name: Heavenly Lasagna: 5 Layers of Comforting Deliciousness
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or boiled); 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend preferred); 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 28 oz crushed tomatoes; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Heavenly Lasagna is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. As I pull out this bubbling masterpiece, I’m reminded of family gatherings and cozy nights in. This recipe features rich meat sauce, creamy cheese layers, and tender pasta sheets, making it the perfect choice for family dinners or entertaining guests. Whether you’re preparing a meal for a special occasion or simply craving a taste of nostalgia, this Heavenly Lasagna will undoubtedly satisfy your hunger and delight your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Heavenly Lasagna

This dish is a true comfort food classic that offers several enticing benefits. First, it’s an ultimate lasagna recipe that layers flavors and textures beautifully. Each bite of this delicious lasagna is filled with rich, savory meat sauce and creamy cheeses. You can also customize it with vegetables for a heavenly vegetarian lasagna option. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored for later. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it a convenient option for busy nights. You can even turn this heavenly lasagna for special occasions into a gourmet dish by adding gourmet cheese or herbs.

Heavenly Lasagna: 5 Layers of Comforting Deliciousness - Heavenly Lasagna - main visual representation

Ingredients for Heavenly Lasagna

Gather these items:

12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or boiled)
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
28 oz crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 large egg
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Heavenly Lasagna Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 2: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes.
Step 3: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Step 4: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom. Layer noodles, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat layers, ending with sauce and cheese on top.
Step 6: Cover with foil (sprayed to prevent sticking) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Let rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Heavenly Lasagna

Keep these in mind:

This lasagna can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
It freezes well for up to 3 months.
Feel free to add vegetables for extra nutrition, like spinach or zucchini.
Letting the lasagna rest before cutting helps maintain its layers.

Best Ways to Serve Heavenly Lasagna

This rich lasagna pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. For a more gourmet experience, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. You can serve it with a glass of red wine to enhance the meal even further.

How to Store and Reheat Heavenly Lasagna

You can store leftover lasagna in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover it with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25 minutes. This makes it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Heavenly Lasagna

What’s the secret to perfect Heavenly Lasagna?

The secret to perfect Heavenly Lasagna lies in the balance of flavors and allowing it to rest after baking. This will ensure that the layers hold together when served.

Can I make Heavenly Lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Heavenly Lasagna a day ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving. This is great for busy weeknights or special occasions.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Heavenly Lasagna?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your noodles are fully cooked and your sauce is not too watery. Let the lasagna rest before slicing to achieve cleaner portions.

Variations of Heavenly Lasagna You Can Try

Consider trying a heavenly vegetarian lasagna by substituting ground beef with mushrooms or lentils. You can also add layers of roasted vegetables for a scrumptious lasagna. Another option is to use different cheeses for a gourmet lasagna experience, such as goat cheese or feta.

For more delicious recipes, check out Small Batch Apple Pumpkin Muffins or Crumbl Caramel Apple Cookies. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit Loaded Chicken Nachos Feast.

For additional tips on cooking pasta, you can refer to this guide.