Description
This no boil lasagna recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy classic Italian flavors without the fuss of boiling noodles. Layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and gooey mozzarella cheese come together in a baked casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or get-togethers. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is sure to become a favorite comfort food.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Pinch of Italian seasoning
Assembly & Topping
- 9 oven-ready lasagna noodles
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy lasagna. Season the meat with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt to taste. Stir in the marinara sauce and let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which will add richness and help the layers set during baking.
- Layer the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 3 oven-ready lasagna noodles evenly over the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle a portion of the mozzarella cheese on top. Add another layer of the meat sauce. Repeat this layering process two more times, ending with noodles topped by sauce.
- Add Final Toppings: Finish by spreading the remaining meat sauce over the top layer of noodles. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce for a beautifully browned and bubbly finish.
- Bake the Lasagna: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly, ensuring the lasagna is cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 to 15 minutes after baking. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Oven-ready lasagna noodles eliminate the need to boil and save time.
- Draining excess fat from meat helps reduce greasiness and improves texture.
- Letting the lasagna rest before serving allows for better slicing and flavor melding.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice color and a mild herbal flavor, but is optional.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
