make ahead lasagna recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best make ahead lasagna recipe

I’m so excited to share my make ahead lasagna recipe with you all. This dish has been a staple in my household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish for a family gathering, this lasagna is sure to please.

It’s also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you might have on hand, making it a great option for reducing food waste. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy families like mine.

The history of lasagna dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was known as ‘libum,’ a dish made with layers of meat, vegetables, and bread. However, the modern version of lasagna we know today originated in Italy, where it’s been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. The name ‘lasagna’ actually comes from the Italian word for ‘flat sheet,’ which refers to the flat noodles used in the dish.

When it comes to making lasagna, the key technique is layering. You want to create layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese that will melt together beautifully when baked. This is where the magic happens, and the flavors all come together to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

In terms of taste and texture, lasagna is all about balance. You want a good balance of rich flavors from the sauce and cheese, along with the savory flavor of the meat and vegetables. The pasta should be cooked just right, not too hard or too soft.

And let’s not forget the cheese – you want it to be melted just so, with a nice golden brown crust on top.

Make Ahead Lasagna

Make Ahead Lasagna

4.6 from 1612 votes

This classic lasagna recipe can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time90 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 30 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 large onion
3 cloves garlic
1 can crushed tomatoes
1 can tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Cheese Filling

30 oz ricotta cheese
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil

For Assembly

12 lasagna noodles
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3Add onion and garlic, cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4Add ground beef and pork, cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
5Drain excess fat.
6Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
7Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, salt, pepper, and basil.
Mix well.
9Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
10Drain and set aside.
11Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
12Arrange a layer of noodles, overlapping slightly.
13Spread 1/3 of the cheese filling over the noodles, followed by 1/3 of the remaining meat sauce.
14Sprinkle with 1/3 of the remaining mozzarella.
15Repeat with two more layers of noodles, cheese filling, meat sauce, and mozzarella.
16Top with a final layer of noodles, sauce, and mozzarella.
17Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
18When ready to bake, remove lasagna from refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
19Preheat oven to 375°F.
20Bake lasagna, covered, for 45 minutes.
21Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
22Allow lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowl
9×13-inch baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 105mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: You can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes for easier preparation. For a spicier lasagna, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.

Watch Video Of How Make Ahead Lasagna Works

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it makes plenty of leftovers – perfect for reheating throughout the week or freezing for later. And let me tell you, there’s nothing like coming home after a long day and having a piping hot plate of lasagna waiting for you in the fridge.

It’s truly one of life’s little pleasures. Whether you’re serving this at home or taking it to a potluck dinner party (and trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!)

, this make ahead lasagna recipe is sure to be a hit.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Make Ahead Lasagna

Q: What type of pasta is best for lasagna?

In order to make a great lasagna, you’ll want to use wide flat noodles that are specifically designed for layering.

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?

Yes, you can definitely use ground beef if you prefer.

Q: How do I store leftover lasagna?

You can store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months.

Q: Can I make lasagna without ricotta cheese?

No problem! You can substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or even plain yogurt if you don’t have ricotta on hand.

Q: How do I reheat leftover lasagna?

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), then bake the leftover lasagna in foil until it’s hot and bubbly.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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