Savor the Comfort of Homemade Cheese Lasagna Delight

Indulge in a Classic Comfort Dish

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy lasagna fresh from the oven. This homemade cheese lasagna recipe offers layers of rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, creating a dish that is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavors. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or even a potluck with friends, this lasagna is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. The best part? It’s easy to make and results in a hearty meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Comforting and Satisfying: There’s nothing quite like a slice of warm lasagna to make you feel at home.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the cheeses to suit your taste.
• Leftover Friendly: Lasagna tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Marinara Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Filling

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lasagna

• 9-12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package directions)
• Extra mozzarella cheese for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinara Sauce: In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
2. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Assemble the Lasagna: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of marinara sauce, and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles, marinara sauce, and a generous topping of mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the lasagna to cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Serving Suggestions

This cheese lasagna pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You might also consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a light tomato salad to balance the richness of the dish. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, can elevate the dining experience even further. For a comforting touch, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving to add a pop of color and flavor.

Tips for Success

• For a richer flavor, consider adding cooked ground beef or sausage to the marinara sauce.
• Letting the lasagna rest after baking is key to ensuring clean slices. The wait may be tough, but it’s worth it!
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, cover with foil and bake until heated through.
• If you want to make the dish ahead of time, assemble it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Variations to Try

While this classic cheese lasagna recipe is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with different ingredients:

• Vegetable Lasagna: Add layers of sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a healthier twist.
• Four Cheese Lasagna: Mix in different types of cheese like gouda, fontina, or a sprinkle of blue cheese for a gourmet flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free varieties that are available in most grocery stores.