Comforting Layers of Deliciousness

Ever walked into a home and been immediately enveloped by the irresistible aroma of baking cheese and savory meat? That’s what happens when you whip up this Quick & Easy Lasagna — it’s a dish that not only pleases the palate but also warms the heart. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a random weeknight dinner, this one-pan wonder has become a viral favorite for a reason: it’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, all while being easy enough for even novice cooks to master!

Why Make This Recipe

So, why should this lasagna be your go-to recipe? Here are a couple of solid reasons:

Easy Cleanup: Who wants to spend the evening scrubbing pots and pans? With this lasagna, most of the magic happens in one baking dish. Less mess equals more relaxation!
Family-Friendly Flavor: Kids and adults alike will happily dive into this cheesy goodness. Seriously, it’s like an all-ages crowd-pleaser! Who doesn’t want to see those smiling faces at the dinner table? 😂

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

1 pound lasagna noodles
1 pound ground beef
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
1 container (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Getting to the creamy, cheesy layers is super easy! Just follow these simple steps:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese and egg, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Layer cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then top with one-third of the mozzarella cheese.
Add another third of the meat sauce and repeat the layers: noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, a third of the meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
Finish with the remaining noodles, top with the rest of the meat sauce, and sprinkle on the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.

How to Make Quick & Easy Lasagna: 1 Holiday Crowd Pleaser (Overview)

Let’s break it down, step-by-step! Start by cooking those noodles — they need to be just right. Then, brown that ground beef and watch as the beef sizzles while mingling with marinara. Meanwhile, mix up that ricotta and egg for a creamy dream! Layer everything in a baking dish like you’re creating edible art. Bake it all together, let the cheese get bubbly, and voilà! Dinner is done and your home now smells like a cozy Italian kitchen. Pro tip: Don’t skip letting it rest; it makes serving way easier! 😉

How to Serve Quick & Easy Lasagna: 1 Holiday Crowd Pleaser

Serving up this lasagna is half the fun! Slice into those hot, cheesy layers and see the strands of melted mozzarella stretching. Pair it with a fresh green salad for that perfect crunch, and don’t forget a warm garlic bread on the side to soak up that delicious sauce. The colors on the plate, from the red marinara to the golden cheese, are just a feast for the eyes as much as the taste buds!

How to Store Quick & Easy Lasagna: 1 Holiday Crowd Pleaser

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This lasagna keeps well in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Just store it in an airtight container. If you want to save it for later, you can pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months. For reheating, simply let it thaw overnight and bake until heated through. Easy peasy!

Tips to Make Quick & Easy Lasagna: 1 Holiday Crowd Pleaser

Here are some quick insider tricks to up your lasagna game:

Noodle Hacks: Try using no-boil lasagna noodles to skip the cooking step. They absorb the sauce perfectly while baking!
Flavor Boost: Add some chopped spinach or mushrooms to the meat sauce for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
Zesty Addition: Throw in some crushed red pepper for a little heat if you’re feeling spicy.
Cheesiness Overload: Feel free to mix your cheeses! Throw in some provolone or ricotta for a twist.
Pre-Prep Option: Assemble your lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready!

Variation

Want to mix things up? Here’s an easy twist: Substitute the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative to make it vegan-friendly. You can also use a blend of zucchini and eggplant instead of noodles for a low-carb version. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What can I use instead of ricotta?
Cottage cheese works well in a pinch for a lighter option, or you can blend silken tofu for a vegan alternative.

Can I freeze this lasagna?
Yes! Just make sure it’s well-covered in an airtight container. It’s great for meal prep!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!