Traditional Lasagna Recipe Easy Tomato Ricotta Layers With Parsley

I’ve perfected this easy traditional lasagna recipe over countless family dinners, ensuring a comforting, delicious meal every time. The aroma of simmering tomato sauce mingled with fresh basil and melted cheese is truly irresistible. This guide offers a streamlined approach to creating luscious tomato ricotta layers with fresh parsley, perfect for busy families seeking healthy, homemade meals. You’ll achieve deep, satisfying flavors and a hearty dish even on your busiest weeknights.

Ingredient Details & Better Choices

Crafting a memorable easy traditional lasagna recipe begins with selecting quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving rich, balanced flavors and perfect texture. This approach ensures your traditional lasagna recipe easy Tomato Ricotta Layers With Parsley delivers on taste and satisfaction.

Core Ingredients

• Lasagna Noodles: 12-16 sheets (approx. 340g), oven-ready or classic. Oven-ready save time; if using classic, boil al dente.
• Ground Beef: 1 lb (450g), lean or 80/20 for richer flavor.
• Crushed Tomatoes: 28 oz (794g) can, good quality for depth (or diced tomatoes if that’s what’s available).
• Ricotta Cheese: 15 oz (425g), whole milk preferred for creaminess.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 16 oz (450g), shredded.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (50g), grated, plus extra for topping.
• Egg: 1 large, binds the ricotta mix.
• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped, for bright flavor (or dried parsley if fresh isn’t handy).
• Onion: 1 medium, diced (about 1 cup/150g).
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
• Olive Oil: 2 Tbsp (30ml), for sautéing.
• Italian Seasoning: 2 tsp.
• Salt: 1 tsp, plus more to taste.
• Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp, freshly ground.

Premium Upgrades

For an elevated experience, consider these choices.

• Grass-fed ground beef or high-quality Italian sausage adds richer flavor.
• Organic canned tomatoes offer a brighter, cleaner taste.
• Artisanal ricotta cheese for superior texture and dairy notes.

Substitutions for Different Diets

Adapt this easy traditional lasagna recipe to fit various dietary needs effortlessly.

• Ground turkey or lentils (1.5 cups cooked) for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Gluten-free lasagna noodles for sensitivities.
• Plant-based ricotta or cashew-based ricotta for dairy-free diets.
• Add spinach or thinly sliced zucchini layers for extra vegetables.

Sourcing Notes

Seek out the best ingredients to make your traditional lasagna recipe easy Tomato Ricotta Layers With Parsley shine. Look for quality crushed tomatoes and fresh herbs at local markets or specialty stores for the most vibrant flavor. I always prioritize fresh, fragrant parsley; it makes a huge difference.

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Follow these precise steps for a perfectly structured and delicious easy traditional lasagna recipe. Achieving the ideal balance of tomato ricotta layers with parsley is simpler than you think.

Prep the Sauce (15-20 mins)

1. Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add 1 lb ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves; cook until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in 28 oz crushed tomatoes, 2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the sauce develop its deep flavor for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should smell rich and savory.

Prepare the Ricotta Mix (5-7 mins)

1. In a medium bowl, combine 15 oz ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley.
2. Mix thoroughly until well combined and creamy. Season lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper; the texture should be smooth and spreadable.
3. Test-Kitchen Micro-Note: To prevent watery lasagna, I always drain the ricotta in a fine-mesh sieve for at least 15 minutes before mixing.

Assemble the Lasagna (10-15 mins)

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce (about 1 cup) on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
3. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. (If using oven-ready, ensure they don’t overlap too much).
4. Evenly spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
5. Top with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1/3 of the total).
6. Repeat layers: sauce, noodles, remaining ricotta, mozzarella.
7. Finish with a final layer of noodles, generously topped with the remaining meat sauce, then a generous final sprinkling of mozzarella and Parmesan. The top should look well covered and ready for a golden crust.

Bake to Perfection (45-55 mins)

1. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
2. Bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven. The lasagna should be gently bubbling underneath the foil.
3. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, indicating the cheese is perfectly melted and delicious.

Let it Rest (10-15 mins)

1. Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven.
2. Allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This crucial step helps the layers set, making for cleaner, more appealing slices. The aromas will deepen as it rests.

Troubleshooting Tips

• To prevent watery easy Tomato Ricotta Layers With Parsley, ensure ricotta is well-drained. If your sauce seems too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce.
• Don’t overcook noodles if boiling; they will finish cooking in the oven.

Appliance Variations

• Instant Pot: Use for a quick, flavorful meat sauce (sauté, then pressure cook 10 mins).
• Slow Cooker: For a deeply rich sauce, simmer on low for 4-6 hours.
• Oven: The classic bake ensures uniform cooking and a perfectly crisp top. This method is used in our traditional lasagna recipe.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This traditional lasagna recipe is ideal for comforting weeknight dinners, impressive potlucks, or relaxed Sunday family meals.

Ideal Uses

• Comforting weeknight dinners
• Impressive potlucks
• Sunday family meals
• Holiday gatherings

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad, warm garlic bread, and a glass of sparkling cider. These simple additions complement the rich flavors beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture or microwave for quick meals.

Nutrition & Lifestyle Advantages of this Easy Lasagna

This easy lasagna provides a balanced meal with protein, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables. It’s a satisfying dish that supports healthy eating.

Health & Lifestyle Benefits

• Balanced meal with protein and carbs
• Supports weight balance and sustained energy
• Easily adaptable for dietary needs

Natural Keyword Hubs

This recipe offers healthy weeknight dinners, high-protein family recipes, and customizable options for various dietary goals. It’s a truly family-friendly meal.

How it Adapts

Excellent for make-ahead meal prep and freezing individual servings, ensuring nourishing family meals are always within reach. It’s a convenient option for busy households.

Time, Cost & Practical Value

This recipe offers significant value with its manageable time commitment and reasonable cost per serving, making it a smart choice for family dinners.

Time Breakdown

• Prep time: approximately 25-30 minutes
• Cook time: 45-55 minutes
• Rest time: 10-15 minutes
• Total active time: under an hour

Cost Per Serving

Expect to spend around $4-$6 per serving, depending on your ingredient choices. This offers an economical yet premium meal experience.

Meal Prep Strategies

Assemble the lasagna completely the day before and refrigerate. Prepare and freeze sauce batches. Freeze portions of this easy lasagna for future easy dinners.

Shopping & Ingredient Sourcing

Most ingredients are readily available at your local supermarket. Sourcing quality items enhances the overall flavor and texture.

Where to Buy

Find most ingredients at your local supermarket. For specialty cheeses or fresh ground meat, visit a local butcher or Italian deli for premium ingredients.

Tips for Quality

Opt for organic crushed tomatoes and fresh parsley for optimal flavor in your traditional lasagna recipe. Shredding block cheese yourself can offer better melt and texture.

Mentions

Consider exploring grocery delivery services or online organic stores for added convenience and quality sourcing. This ensures fresh, wholesome components for your dish.

Pro Adjustments & Hacks

Elevate your lasagna with these simple adjustments. These small tweaks can significantly impact the dish’s depth and appeal.

Advanced Flavor Boosts

Add a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta mix; I’ve found this brightens the flavor without being overtly detectable. Layer fresh basil leaves between layers for an aromatic touch.

Kid-Friendly vs. Gourmet

For kids, use milder cheeses and keep seasoning light. For a gourmet twist, use homemade pasta and specialty cheeses like Fontina. You can also vary your ground meat choice.

Allergy-Safe Modifications

Use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella for dairy-free needs. Opt for gluten-free noodles to accommodate sensitivities, ensuring your easy lasagna is inclusive for everyone.

FAQs

Can this traditional lasagna recipe easy Tomato Ricotta Layers With Parsley be made ahead?

Yes, this traditional lasagna recipe is fantastic for meal prep. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate before baking. This saves valuable time on busy days.

What’s the best way to prevent watery lasagna?

To prevent watery lasagna, drain excess liquid from your ricotta cheese. Place it in a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth for 15-30 minutes. This simple step makes a big difference in texture.

Can I use oven-ready noodles, or should I boil them?

Oven-ready noodles work great and save time; follow package directions for best results. If using regular noodles, boil them al dente before assembling, as they will finish cooking in the oven.

How long does leftover lasagna last?

Leftover lasagna keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. This makes it perfect for healthy weeknight dinners throughout the week or for convenient meal prep.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Both baked and unbaked lasagna freeze exceptionally well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating for a satisfying meal anytime.

Can I make a vegetarian version of this easy lasagna?

Yes, a vegetarian version of this easy lasagna is simple to achieve. Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a healthy twist.

Conclusion

This easy traditional lasagna recipe with tomato ricotta layers and parsley is truly a kitchen hero – fast, flavor-packed, and wonderfully flexible for any family’s needs. Pin this recipe now and make it a staple in your meal rotation for delicious, stress-free dinners!

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