Comfort Food Lasagna Bake

Name: Comfort Food Lasagna Bake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 12 lasagna noodles; 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 28 oz can crushed tomatoes; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Favorites

I absolutely love making this Comfort Food Lasagna Bake when I want to indulge in some cozy, hearty goodness. This recipe combines layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and a hint of herbs that work together to create the ultimate comfort dish. As I prepare this lasagna, the aroma fills my kitchen, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia. It's the kind of meal that brings everyone around the table and makes each bite feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:49:36.080Z

When I first attempted to make lasagna, it was a bit of a daunting task. However, I discovered that layering the ingredients in a specific order really made a difference in the flavor and texture. Starting with sauce on the bottom prevents the noodles from sticking, and I love how the mozzarella cheese gets beautifully bubbly on top. Each layer is a celebration of taste!

One secret I learned is to let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes after baking before slicing into it. This step allows the layers to firm up and makes serving so much easier. Trust me, it's worth the wait! The flavors meld together beautifully during this time, enhancing the overall experience.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty layers of flavor that fill you up and warm you from the inside out
The gooey, melted cheese creates a delicious crust that takes this dish to the next level
Perfect for meal prep, as leftovers are just as good, if not better, the next day

Mastering the Layers

When assembling your lasagna, it's important to create a balanced layering technique. Start with a base of meat sauce to prevent the noodles from sticking to the dish. This not only enhances flavor but also helps maintain a good texture. Each layer should be spread evenly, ensuring that every slice of lasagna contains a satisfying combination of pasta, sauce, and cheese. Take care to reserve enough meat sauce for the top layer to ensure a rich crust of melted cheeses.

Using ricotta cheese is integral to the creamy texture of this dish. If you prefer a lighter alternative, consider substituting part of the ricotta with low-fat cottage cheese for a similar texture but fewer calories. For those who enjoy a bit of zest, mixing in some spinach or finely grated zucchini with the ricotta can add nutrients and flavor without altering the essence of the lasagna.

Perfecting the Bake

Baking your lasagna with foil for the initial stage helps steam the dish, preventing the noodles from drying out. After 25 minutes, removing the foil allows the cheeses to caramelize and create a delectable golden crust. Keep an eye on it during the last baking period; if you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with the foil again to prevent burning.

Ensure your lasagna is bubbling around the edges and has a glossy surface before removing it from the oven. This visual cue indicates that it has cooked through properly. Allowing it to rest for 10 minutes is just as crucial; this helps the layers set, making it easier to slice without losing its shape. If you're in a hurry, consider letting it rest for at least 5 minutes, but the longer the better for those perfect, clean slices.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Comfort Food Lasagna Bake:

Ingredients

12 lasagna noodles
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
28 oz can crushed tomatoes
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have everything on hand before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your lasagna:

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes.

Cook the Lasagna Noodles

While the sauce simmers, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Assemble the Lasagna

Spread a layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Layer 4 noodles on top, then spread half of the ricotta cheese and a third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with noodles and the remaining sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Bake the Lasagna

Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it Rest

Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!

Your Comfort Food Lasagna Bake is ready to be served!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative if preferred.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Comfort Food Lasagna Bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can assemble it entirely and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If you plan to prepare it in advance, layer the ingredients as instructed but cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you're ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes of cooking time, as it will start cold from the refrigerator.

For longer storage, consider freezing your lasagna before baking. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, you can allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator or directly cook it from frozen, increasing the baking time by approximately 30-45 minutes.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the meat sauce using different proteins, such as ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also incorporate Italian sausage for added flavors. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the meat with layers of roasted vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach, making sure to season them well to enhance their flavors.

To change up the cheese blend, try incorporating feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. If you're aiming for a dairy-free version, consider using cashew or almond-based cheeses. Additionally, adding a layer of pesto between the ricotta and mozzarella can elevate the taste and bring vibrant colors to your dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the lasagna in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add some extra baking time if you bake it straight from the fridge.

→ What can I serve with lasagna?

A fresh green salad and garlic bread make excellent side dishes to complement the lasagna.

→ Can I freeze leftover lasagna?

Absolutely! Allow the lasagna to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends, such as provolone or fontina, for unique flavors.