Classic Lasagna Dinner Recipes with Cheesy Layers

Table of Contents

• Key Takeaways
• Why This Classic Lasagna Dinner Recipe Stands Out
• Behind the Layers: What Makes It So Special
• Family Traditions Around the Dinner Table
• The Secret to Perfect Dinner Recipes Every Time
• Lasagna as the Ultimate Comfort Food
• Notes & Tips

Key Takeaways

This classic lasagna recipe is a guaranteed family favorite. It’s rich, flavorful, and made for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy weeknight meal, this dish delivers on every level.

Why This Classic Lasagna Dinner Recipe Stands Out

At Betty Cooks (https://www.bettycooks.com), we believe dinner recipes should bring people together. This lasagna does just that—layer upon layer of savory meats, cheese, and homemade sauce all baked to golden perfection. From the first bite, you’ll understand why it’s one of our most cherished creations.

Behind the Layers: What Makes It So Special

It’s not just about the ingredients—it’s about how they come together. Each layer of this lasagna is built with intention and care. We use a mix of sausage and beef, fresh herbs, and creamy ricotta to create a medley of flavors and textures that represent the best of homemade dinner recipes.

Family Traditions Around the Dinner Table

This recipe has become a tradition in many households, not just for its incredible taste but for the memories made while enjoying it. From Sunday dinners to special celebrations, it’s a timeless staple that always brings smiles. Add a green salad and garlic bread, and you’ve got one of those perfect dinner recipes you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation.

The Secret to Perfect Dinner Recipes Every Time

It’s all in the prep and patience. Taking the time to let your sauce simmer and the lasagna rest after baking makes a big difference. These small details elevate this dish from good to unforgettable. Try pairing it with our Penne Vodka Sauce as a side dish or swap it in for a creative twist.

Lasagna as the Ultimate Comfort Food

Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a casual family gathering, lasagna is one of the few dinner recipes that satisfies every time. It’s hearty, cheesy, and exactly what you crave when you need something comforting. This version even complements favorites like Sprite Pancakes or Hamburger Rice as part of a full meal spread.

Notes & Tips

If you want to lighten things up, swap the ricotta for cottage cheese or add spinach between layers. For extra crispness on top, broil for 2 minutes after baking. And don’t forget—a short resting period after baking lets the flavors settle beautifully. This also reheats well, making it one of those easy casserole recipes for dinner 4 ingredients ground beef simple enthusiasts will appreciate.

Classic Lasagna Dinner Recipes with Cheesy Layers

This hearty lasagna is the perfect choice for dinner recipes—easy, homemade, and irresistibly cheesy.

Prep Time30 minutes mins

Cook Time2 minutes mins

Total Time2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: dinner recipes, easy casserole recipes for dinner 4 ingredients ground beef simple, Easy Glazed Donut Recipe, Hamburger Rice, homemade fried donuts recipe easy, Penne Vodka Sauce, Sprite Pancakes

Servings: 12 servings

Author: Betty

Ingredients

• 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
• 3/4 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup minced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 (6 ounce) cans tomato paste
• 2 (6.5 ounce) cans canned tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 12 lasagna noodles
• 16 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 pound mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven, cook sausage, ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until well browned.
2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water.
3. Season with sugar, basil, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, 1 tablespoon salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons parsley.
4. Simmer, covered, for about 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
6. Cook lasagna noodles in boiling water for 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
7. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with egg, remaining parsley, and 3/4 teaspoon salt.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. To assemble, spread 1 1/2 cups of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
10. Arrange 6 noodles lengthwise over meat sauce.
11. Spread half the ricotta cheese mixture over noodles.
12. Top with a third of mozzarella cheese slices. Spoon 1 1/2 cups meat sauce over mozzarella, and sprinkle with 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese.
13. Repeat layers, and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
14. Cover with foil: to prevent sticking, either spray foil with cooking spray, or make sure the foil does not touch the cheese.
15. Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil, and bake an additional 25 minutes.
16. Cool for 15 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or add spinach between the layers.