Baked Comfort Food Lasagna

Name: Baked Comfort Food Lasagna
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 12 lasagna noodles; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef or sausage; 2 cans (15 oz each) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons dried basil; 1 teaspoon oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Simple Homestyle Cooking

When I think of comfort food, lasagna always comes to mind. I love how the layers of pasta, rich sauce, and melted cheese create a perfect harmony of flavors. This baked comfort food lasagna is not just delicious; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. Each bite brings back memories of gathering around the table with loved ones. I’ve experimented with different ingredients over time, and I find that adding a touch of garlic and fresh basil elevates the dish to new heights. It’s a classic that never fails to impress!

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:01:35.993Z

Growing up, I always waited eagerly for my family's lasagna night. We used to gather around the kitchen, layering ingredients together, and it became a bonding experience. Over time, I learned the importance of using quality cheeses and herbs to achieve depth in flavor. My favorite tip? Always let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes after baking. This not only helps in slicing but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

When creating this baked comfort food lasagna, I focused on balancing the richness of the cheese with a homemade marinara that isn't overly thick. The result? A comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough for gatherings. It’s a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again, just like I do!

Why You'll Love This Lasagna
Hearty layers that provide a satisfying meal experience
Homemade sauce that bursts with fresh flavors
A perfect dish for family gatherings or meal prep

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When making lasagna, the quality of your ingredients can make a significant difference in flavor and texture. Opt for high-quality ground beef or sausage; the fat content will enhance the meat's richness, complementing the sauce exceptionally. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or a blend of mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Each variation brings its own unique taste while preserving that comforting essence of lasagna.

Don’t underestimate the impact of fresh herbs like basil in your sauce. Fresh basil adds a fragrant aroma and a burst of flavor that dried herbs simply can't replicate. If fresh basil is unavailable, use a bit less dried basil, but try to incorporate other fresh ingredients such as parsley or oregano to maintain flavor complexity. Remember, the balance of seasonings will set your lasagna apart!

Perfecting Your Layers

Layering your ingredients correctly is crucial for achieving the ideal lasagna. Start with sauce at the bottom to prevent the noodles from sticking, and ensure an even distribution of the cheese mixture to avoid any dry spots in your final dish. As you build your layers, take care not to overfill; each ingredient should be visible, lending to a beautiful presentation when sliced. Ensure the top layer ends with cheese for that gorgeous, bubbly crust.

Don’t rush through the assembly! Take your time to spread each layer evenly and strategically place the mozzarella and Parmesan so they melt and intermingle perfectly. If you have leftover sauce or cheese, save them for a topping—it enhances the flavors and keeps the lasagna from drying out during baking.

Baking and Serving Tips

Baking the lasagna covered with aluminum foil for the first part of the cooking time is essential to allow it to heat through without burning the top. After removing the foil, you can broil the top for 1-2 minutes for an extra golden finish, but keep a close watch to prevent burning. The final result should be bubbling edges and a beautifully melted cheese layer.

Letting your lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes after baking is a game-changer. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart. For extra flavor, consider pairing your lasagna with a fresh salad or garlic bread. If you have leftovers, they refrigerate well for up to three days or freeze for longer storage—just be sure to thaw before reheating!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your lasagna:

Ingredients for Lasagna

12 lasagna noodles
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef or sausage
2 cans (15 oz each) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 egg
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure everything is prepped before you start layering your lasagna!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your lasagna:

Prepare the Noodles

Boil lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Mix the Ricotta

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.

Layer the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, start with a layer of sauce, followed by noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and parmesan. Repeat layers until finished, ending with sauce and cheese on top.

Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Rest and Serve

Take the lasagna out and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!

Slice carefully and serve warm with a side salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor of your lasagna, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or a bay leaf to the sauce during simmering. You can also customize the filling by incorporating spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Make-Ahead Strategies

One of the best parts of lasagna is how well it stores, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. If you choose to freeze your assembled lasagna, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last for up to three months. Just make sure to defrost it overnight in the fridge before baking, so it cooks evenly.

If you don’t need the full batch at once, consider making individual lasagna portions in muffin tins or small ramekins. These mini-lasagnas are excellent for portion control and can be frozen for quick meals. Just adjust the baking time to around 25-30 minutes if baking from frozen, ensuring they are heated through before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Customization is the name of the game when it comes to lasagna. If you're aiming for a lighter dish, substitute the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, which will maintain creaminess with fewer calories. For gluten-free options, look for no-boil gluten-free lasagna noodles that can be found readily, allowing you to enjoy this dish without the carbs. Just ensure your sauce is thick enough to accommodate the specialty noodles.

If you're short on mozzarella or Parmesan, you can swap in other cheeses like Gruyère or provolone for a flavor twist. Keep in mind that mozzarella helps with that gooey melt, so if using a firmer cheese, consider mixing in a small amount of cream or milk to maintain a softer texture. Experimenting with cheese combinations can yield delightful results!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake.

→ Can I freeze leftover lasagna?

Yes, lasagna freezes well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a blend of cream cheese and sour cream for a similar texture.

→ How do I prevent lasagna from being watery?

Make sure to drain any excess liquid from your sauce and let the lasagna rest after baking to allow it to set.