Lasagna Recipe With Meat Sauce And Ricotta Cheese

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dinner, look no further! This Lasagna Recipe with Meat Sauce and Ricotta Cheese delivers hearty, flavorful layers that will make your mouth water. It’s a perfect combination of lean meat, creamy cheese, and tender pasta that comes together effortlessly in the oven.

Why You’ll Love Lasagna Recipe With Meat Sauce And Ricotta Cheese

• Rich layers of flavor: The combination of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella cheese makes every bite deliciously satisfying. Each layer is packed with flavor that blends beautifully.
• Hearty and filling: This lasagna is a complete meal in one dish. The pasta, protein, and cheese make it a hearty option that leaves everyone feeling full and happy.
• Perfect for meal prep: Lasagna tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and you’ll have a ready-to-go dinner or lunch for the week.
• Easy to customize: You can switch up the ground meat, add vegetables, or make it extra cheesy based on your family’s preferences. This recipe is flexible and adaptable for everyone’s taste.
• Family favorite: Lasagna is always a hit at the dinner table. This version is lighter with lean meat, but still full of flavor, making it a go-to for both kids and adults alike.

Lasagna is a one-dish meal that’s very satisfying.  This lasagna recipe consists of three layers of lasagna noodles.  There is meat sauce between the first and second layer of lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese between the second and third layer, and shredded cheese on top of the lasagna.  There is also tomato sauce between each layer of the lasagna, including the very bottom and very top.  All these flavors blend together, producing a very yummy lasagna that tastes wonderful.

For the meat, you can use any kind of ground meat, like ground beef, ground turkey or ground pork.  For lasagna, I like to use the leanest meat possible – ground turkey breast.  Lasagna is a good recipe to use the lean meat because when the meat is mixed with the tomato sauce, it tastes the same whether it’s lean or not.  So choosing extra-lean ground turkey breast is a good way to cut calories in a lasagna.

Ingredients For Lasagna Recipe With Meat Sauce And Ricotta Cheese:

• 9 lasagna noodles: These are the foundation of the dish, providing structure and a satisfying texture.
• 1 onion: Adds a layer of sweetness and depth of flavor to the meat sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic: Brings an aromatic and savory element to the sauce.
• 1 jar (1 lb) pasta sauce: A jar of tomato-based pasta sauce gives a rich, tangy base for the meat sauce.
• 1 1/2 cups water: Mixed with the pasta sauce to ensure the lasagna has enough moisture as it bakes.
• 1 lb ground lean turkey or extra-lean beef: A lighter option for the meat layer without sacrificing flavor.
• 1 jar (8 oz) part-skim ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess between the pasta layers.
• 1 package (8 oz) shredded cheese (mozzarella is best): Melts beautifully on top of the lasagna for that perfect cheesy finish.
• 1 tsp oil: Used to sauté the onions and brown the meat.

See the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Lasagna Recipe With Meat Sauce And Ricotta Cheese

• Non-stick frying pan – For browning the meat and cooking the onions and garlic.
• Baking dish – The perfect size for layering the lasagna and baking it evenly.
• Spatula – Helps with spreading the meat sauce and ricotta cheese evenly between layers.
• Spoon – For stirring the sauce and spreading the ricotta cheese.
• Foil – To cover the lasagna during baking and prevent it from drying out.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients like water, pasta sauce, and cheese.

Directions How To Make Lasagna:

Soak the lasagna noodles for 15 minutes: fill the baking dish with hot water and put lasagna noodles in it.

While the lasagna noodles are soaking, peel the onion, chop the onion and set aside.  Peel and mince garlic and set aside.

Preheat oven to 350F.

In a bowl, mix tomato sauce and water.

Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.  Add chopped onion and cook, stirring periodically, for 5 minutes.  Add ground meat and cook, stirring periodically, for 7 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through (no longer pink).  Add garlic cloves and mix.  Ad 1 cup of tomato sauce and mix.

Pour 1 cup of tomato sauce mixture on the bottom of the 8×12 non-stick baking dish.  Add 3 lasagna noodles side-by-side.  Put the meat mixture on top and spread in a single layer.

Add 3 lasagna noodles side-by-side.  Add ricotta cheese and spread it with a spoon in a single layer.  Add 1 cup of tomato sauce and spread it.

Add the last 3 lasagna noodles side-by-side.  Pour the remaining tomato sauce on top of the lasagna.  Sprinkle with shredded cheese.

Cover the lasagna dish with foil.  Put in the oven and bake for 40 minutes.  Remove foil and bake for 10 more minutes.  Enjoy your lasagna piping hot!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the lasagna with a simple green salad on the side to balance the richness of the dish.
• Cheesy garlic bread or a warm breadstick pairs perfectly with lasagna and helps to soak up any extra sauce.
• A glass of red wine, like Sangria, complements the savory flavors of the lasagna.
• For a lighter option, serve with steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
• Finish the meal with a light dessert like a fruit salad or a scoop of mixed frozen berry sorbet to cleanse the palate.

Tips For Success

• Soak the noodles: Softening the lasagna noodles in hot water helps them cook evenly in the oven without boiling them beforehand. Make sure the water is hot enough to soften them properly, and let them sit for 15 minutes to become pliable for layering.
• Use lean meat: Opting for extra-lean ground turkey or beef keeps this dish lighter without losing any flavor. The meat will absorb the flavors of the tomato sauce, ensuring a delicious result that doesn’t feel overly heavy.
• Layering technique: Spread each layer as evenly as possible, especially the ricotta cheese and meat sauce. This ensures every bite is perfectly balanced and you get consistent flavors throughout the dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the layers.
• Cover with foil: Baking the lasagna covered with foil helps lock in moisture and prevents the top from browning too quickly. This will also help the noodles cook through without drying out. Remember to remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to bubble and brown nicely.
• Let it rest: After baking, let the lasagna rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve without falling apart. If you cut into it right away, the cheese and sauce might be too runny.
• Making ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep or gatherings! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It also freezes well—just bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes of cook time.

Variations And Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, simply omit the ground meat and add more vegetables instead. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers are great options that add texture and flavor. You can also mix in a little extra ricotta or even tofu for added protein. The vegetarian version will still be hearty and satisfying without the meat!
• Different Meats: While this recipe uses lean ground turkey or beef, you can easily substitute other meats depending on your preference. Ground chicken or pork are excellent alternatives that will work just as well. For a richer flavor, try using a mixture of ground beef and Italian sausage for a heartier, more robust meat sauce.
• Cheese Substitutions: Mozzarella and ricotta are classic choices, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Try mixing in provolone, parmesan, or even a touch of sharp cheddar for extra flavor. You can also use cottage cheese in place of ricotta for a lighter option.
• Gluten-Free Lasagna: To make this dish gluten-free, swap the traditional lasagna noodles for gluten-free lasagna sheets. These are available in most grocery stores, and they cook up just like regular pasta. Be sure to follow the package instructions for best results.
• Dairy-Free Version: If you need to make the lasagna dairy-free, substitute dairy-free versions of ricotta and mozzarella cheese. Many brands offer plant-based cheese options that melt and taste delicious. You can also use a cashew or tofu-based ricotta as a creamy alternative.
• Adding More Vegetables: To sneak in more veggies, add grated carrots, chopped spinach, or zucchini to the meat sauce. This is a great way to boost the nutritional content of the dish without sacrificing flavor. You can also substitute one layer of noodles with thinly sliced eggplant or zucchini for a low-carb twist.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce for a spicier lasagna. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground turkey or beef to add more flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerating: Once the lasagna has cooled, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other food odors in the fridge.
• Freezing: Lasagna freezes exceptionally well! You can either freeze the entire dish or portion it into individual servings. To freeze, wrap the lasagna (or portions) tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, or place in an airtight freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding about 20-25 minutes to the original baking time.
• Reheating in the Oven: To reheat the lasagna from the fridge, preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, bake at 350°F for 60-75 minutes, keeping it covered for most of the time. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and brown on top.
• Reheating in the Microwave: For a quicker option, reheat individual slices in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until fully warmed. Be sure to check the middle of the slice to make sure it’s heated all the way through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! This lasagna is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If you’re planning to freeze it, you can assemble the lasagna and freeze it before baking. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, add a little extra time if cooking from frozen.

How do I prevent my lasagna from becoming too watery?

To avoid watery lasagna, make sure to thoroughly drain the meat after cooking if using fattier meats like ground beef. Also, ensure that you follow the correct layering method and don’t overuse the sauce. Letting the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes after baking will also help it set and absorb any excess liquid.

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?

Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles in place of regular ones. No need to pre-soak them—just make sure there’s enough sauce in each layer so the noodles can absorb the moisture and cook properly while baking. You may want to add a little more sauce than usual to prevent the dish from becoming dry.

What is the best way to store leftover lasagna?

Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the lasagna in portions or as a whole. When you’re ready to reheat, you can either microwave individual servings or reheat the entire dish in the oven.

Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?

Yes! Cottage cheese is a great substitute for ricotta, especially if you prefer a lighter texture or want to reduce the calorie content. Simply replace the ricotta with an equal amount of cottage cheese. Some people prefer to blend the cottage cheese for a smoother texture, but that’s completely optional.

What other cheeses can I use in this lasagna?

Mozzarella and ricotta are traditional, but you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, parmesan, or even a touch of sharp cheddar for extra flavor. If you love a super cheesy lasagna, feel free to add more mozzarella between the layers or sprinkle some parmesan on top before baking.

Can I add vegetables to the meat sauce?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or carrots to the meat sauce is a great way to increase the nutritional value of the dish. Simply sauté them with the onion before adding the meat, or stir them into the sauce just before layering. You can even replace the meat entirely with vegetables for a vegetarian lasagna.

How do I keep my lasagna from falling apart when I slice it?

The key to neat, clean slices is to let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the layers to set and makes it much easier to cut without everything sliding apart. Use a sharp knife to slice and a spatula to serve for the best results.

Other Easy Lasagna Recipes

Air Fryer Frozen Lasagna Cooking Instructions: Learn how to cook frozen lasagna in the air fryer for a perfectly crispy top and evenly heated layers.

Quick 5-Ingredient No-Boil Spinach Lasagna: This easy no-boil spinach lasagna uses just 5 simple ingredients to create a delicious, hassle-free dinner.

Cheesy Mexican-Style Lasagna Casserole: A flavorful twist on classic lasagna, this Mexican-style casserole is packed with layers of cheese, salsa, and seasoned meat.

Vegetarian Lasagna With Eggplant And Cheese: This vegetarian lasagna combines tender eggplant slices with rich layers of cheese and marinara for a satisfying meat-free meal.

Low-Fat Ground Turkey Lasagna Recipe: Enjoy a healthier version of lasagna with lean ground turkey and light ricotta cheese, perfect for a guilt-free family dinner.

Green Pepper Vegetable Lasagna Bake: Loaded with green peppers and other vegetables, this lasagna bake is a nutritious and flavorful vegetarian meal.

Step-By-Step No-Boil Lasagna Guide: Follow this step-by-step guide to easily make a delicious lasagna without boiling the noodles first.

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