This is the easiest lasagna recipe you’ll ever try — creamy, cheesy layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melty mozzarella come together in a way that feels like a real treat, but without all the fuss.
I love making this when I want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The secret is using simple ingredients and shortcuts that don’t sacrifice flavor. I usually skip making sauce from scratch and go for a good-quality jar. Plus, no-boil noodles keep things quick and mess-free.
For serving, I like pairing this lasagna with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, and leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day. This is the kind of recipe that feels like a hug from your favorite person—comforting and reliable every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
No-boil noodles: These noodles save time since you don’t need to cook them beforehand. If no-boil noodles aren’t available, regular noodles work fine—just boil and drain them before layering.
Ground beef: I use ground beef for its classic taste, but ground turkey or plant-based “beef” are great lighter or vegetarian options.
Ricotta cheese: This gives the creamy texture that balances the meat and sauce. If you can’t find ricotta, cottage cheese (well-drained) is a fine substitute.
Mozzarella & Parmesan: Mozzarella melts beautifully and creates that gooey layer, while Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor. Use a good-quality shredded cheese for best results.
Marinara sauce: A store-bought jar speeds up the process. Choose one with a flavor you like. You could also use homemade sauce if you want, but it’s not necessary for this recipe.
How Can I Layer Lasagna for the Best Texture and Flavor?
Layering is key to lasagna’s great texture and flavor. Here’s how I do it for even cooking and tasty bites:
- Start with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Place noodles neatly without overlapping too much so they cook evenly.
- Spread the ricotta mixture gently to keep layers creamy.
- Add shredded mozzarella on top of the ricotta to create a melty layer.
- Finish each layer with meat sauce for flavor and moisture.
- Repeat the layers evenly, finishing with cheese on top for a golden crust.
Covering with foil while baking keeps the moisture in, then removing it towards the end lets the cheese brown nicely. Letting the dish rest after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and enjoy all the flavors together.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size to layer your lasagna and bake it evenly.
- Large skillet – great for browning the ground beef and cooking the sauce together.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the ricotta, egg, and Parmesan cheese smoothly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – handy for stirring the sauce and spreading cheese layers evenly.
- Aluminum foil – covers the lasagna while baking to keep it moist and prevent burning.
- Oven mitts – essential for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for Italian sausage for a spicier, more flavorful meat sauce.
- Add chopped spinach or kale to the ricotta mixture for a boost of color and nutrition.
- Mix in fresh basil or oregano to the sauce to brighten the classic taste.
- Use a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese for extra gooey texture and mild smokiness.
Easiest Classic Lasagna
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Layers:
- 9 no-boil lasagna noodles
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
Other:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and about 40 minutes to bake, plus 10 minutes to rest before serving. So, plan for just under 1 hour to enjoy a warm, hearty lasagna fresh from your oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Meat Sauce:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with minced garlic until nicely browned and no longer pink. Drain the fat, then add the marinara sauce. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, dried Italian seasoning, and half of the Parmesan cheese until smooth and combined.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Arrange 3 no-boil lasagna noodles in a single layer over the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Add one-third of the meat sauce on top.
Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
4. Bake and Rest:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting time lets the layers set up nicely and makes it easier to slice.
5. Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your simple, delicious homemade lasagna!
Can I Use Regular Lasagna Noodles Instead of No-Boil?
Yes! Just boil regular noodles according to package instructions, drain them well, and let them cool slightly before layering. This adds a bit more prep time but works perfectly.
How Do I Store Leftover Lasagna?
Cool leftovers completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna and cover it tightly with foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey or Sausage?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and cooks quickly, while Italian sausage adds great flavor. Adjust seasonings as needed to complement your choice.
