Lasagna is one of my favorite Italian dishes! I’ve shared many versions on this blog, including my Stuffed bell-peppers-without-rice, which is both cozy and comforting. But today, I’m excited to share a classic lasagna recipe with ricotta cheese.
This recipe is incredibly rich and satisfying, yet simple to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients like ricotta cheese, lasagna noodles, marinara sauce, and mozzarella, you can create a hearty meal. If you want more flavor, feel free to add herbs like basil or oregano for an extra boost.
For serving, I suggest pairing it with a crisp green salad or some warm garlic bread. These sides perfectly complement the creamy, cheesy layers of the lasagna. Enjoy!
I chose the lasagna recipe with ricotta cheese because it adds a creamy, smooth texture that balances perfectly with the rich meat sauce and layers of pasta. Ricotta brings a lightness that other cheeses don’t, making each bite melt in your mouth.
Plus, it’s easy to work with and blends beautifully with herbs and seasonings, creating a lasagna that’s flavorful, comforting, and always a hit with family and friends.
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Step 1:
Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package directions. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2:
Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, cook until browned, and break it into small pieces. Drain excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3:
Prepare the ricotta mixture: Combine ricotta cheese, egg, and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Step 4:
Assemble the lasagna: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Add a layer of noodles (about 3), half of the ricotta mixture, a third of the mozzarella cheese, and another layer of meat sauce. Repeat the layers (noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and sauce). Top the final layer with noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 5:
Bake: Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6:
Let it rest: Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Don’t forget to season your ricotta mixture with salt, pepper, and herbs like parsley or basil. Adding an egg helps bind the cheese, making the lasagna more structured when you cut into it.
- Boil the lasagna noodles until they’re just al dente (slightly firm). This prevents them from becoming mushy when they cook further in the oven with the sauce.
- Allow your meat sauce to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes. This intensifies the flavors and creates a thicker sauce that won’t make your lasagna too watery.
- Be generous with your layers. Alternate between noodles, ricotta, sauce, and cheese to build a hearty lasagna with bold flavors in every bite.
- While it’s tempting to add a lot of cheese, too much can make the lasagna greasy. Balance the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan to get a gooey but not overwhelming cheesiness.
You can pair your lasagna with ricotta cheese with a variety of sides to complete the meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the lasagna and adds freshness to the plate. If you prefer something warm, garlic bread with a crispy crust is a classic choice that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Also, a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli is a healthy and flavorful addition. These roasted veggies bring a bit of sweetness and crunch that complement the creamy lasagna layers.
To store lasagna with ricotta cheese, let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. You can store it in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. In the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.
If you want to freeze it, wrap individual portions in foil or freezer-safe bags, and it will last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
- Yes! You can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the fridge, and bake when ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze lasagna with ricotta cheese?
- Yes, lasagna freezes very well. You can freeze it either baked or unbaked. Wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and it will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Do I have to boil the lasagna noodles?
- You can use no-boil lasagna noodles for convenience, but if using regular noodles, cook them until al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
What can I add to enhance the ricotta mixture?
- Season the ricotta with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano. Adding an egg helps bind the cheese for better texture.
How long should I bake lasagna?
- Bake lasagna covered at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Can I use different types of cheese?
- Yes, you can mix cheeses! Besides ricotta, use mozzarella and Parmesan, or even try provolone or a sprinkle of sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
Can I make a vegetarian version?
- Absolutely! Simply skip the meat and use a vegetable-based sauce or add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini in the layers for a flavorful vegetarian lasagna.
This lasagna recipe with ricotta cheese is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy layers of cheese, hearty sauce, and tender noodles, it’s both rich and satisfying.
