What is in a traditional lasagna?

A traditional classic homemade lasagna includes layers of pasta, rich meat sauce (usually a blend of ground beef and pork), ricotta cheese mixed with egg, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and a perfectly balanced tomato base. The structure typically follows a sauce-noodle-cheese pattern, repeated for two or three layers. This dish is famous for its savory, comforting flavor and its ability to feed a crowd while still tasting like a labor of love.

What is the secret to a good lasagna?

The secret to a great classic homemade lasagna lies in patience and balance. Simmering your meat sauce for 20–30 minutes deepens flavor. Mixing ricotta with egg gives it structure. And resting the lasagna after baking helps layers firm up and flavors meld. Use high-quality ingredients and don’t rush the process—lasagna rewards care and time.

What are the layers of traditional lasagne?

Classic lasagna is typically structured like this: Meat sauce on the bottom Lasagna noodles Ricotta cheese mixture Meat sauce Mozzarella Repeat layers Top with final noodles, sauce, and cheese blend This structured layering creates the signature taste and texture of classic homemade lasagna , with every bite offering a perfect mix of ingredients.

Do Italians in Italy use ricotta in lasagna?

Yes and no—it depends on the region. In Southern Italy, especially in Naples and Sicily, ricotta is traditionally used in lasagna. In Northern Italy, béchamel sauce (a white, creamy sauce made from butter, flour, and milk) is more common. In American-style classic homemade lasagna , ricotta is the standard, often blended with egg and herbs.

Is lasagna better with ricotta or cottage cheese?

That comes down to taste and texture. Ricotta offers a smooth, creamy consistency with mild flavor—ideal for the soft, comforting layers of classic homemade lasagna . Cottage cheese, on the other hand, has a slightly tangier profile and curdled texture that some people love for its contrast. Either option works well, and both are often interchangeable in lasagna recipes.

What to add to lasagna to make it taste better?

There are several ways to elevate the flavor of classic homemade lasagna : Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder for mild heat Splash in a bit of red wine to deepen the sauce Stir in fresh basil or oregano for aromatic complexity Add grated nutmeg to the cheese mixture for a subtle warmth Use a blend of ground beef and pork for more flavor depth Even a small tweak to the sauce or cheese layer can make your lasagna stand out at the table.

Classic Homemade Lasagna: The Best Traditional Recipe That Always Wins

Name: Classic Homemade Lasagna
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; ½ lb Italian sausage; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 28 oz crushed tomatoes; 6 oz tomato paste; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 12 lasagna noodles (boiled or oven-ready)

Description

This classic homemade lasagna is a comforting Italian favorite, layered with rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and bubbly mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners, entertaining, or meal prep, this traditional recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
½ lb Italian sausage
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
28 oz crushed tomatoes
6 oz tomato paste
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 lasagna noodles (boiled or oven-ready)

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onions until soft, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
Add ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes until thick.
Boil lasagna noodles as per package instructions, or prepare oven-ready noodles.
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with the egg and a pinch of salt.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom, then layer noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella. Repeat for two layers.
Top the final layer with remaining sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until cheese is golden.
Let rest 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter texture.
For vegetarian versions, replace meat with mushrooms or lentils.
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Let frozen lasagna thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: classic homemade lasagna, traditional lasagna, baked pasta, meat lasagna, Italian comfort food