barilla lasagna recipe
Jessica
Make the ultimate Barilla Lasagna Recipe! Layers of cheesy goodness, easy steps, and family-approved flavor. Perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 Servings
Calories 450 kcal
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb 450g ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix of both for a deeper flavor profile)
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade—your choice!)
- 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Filling:
- 2 cups 475g ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg this helps bind the filling for a perfect texture
- ½ cup 50g Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped (optional, but it adds a bright, herby note)
For Layering:
- 1 box 9 oz Barilla no-boil lasagna sheets (a game-changer for easy prep!)
- 3 cups 340g mozzarella cheese, shredded (because lasagna isn’t lasagna without plenty of gooey cheese)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves or extra parsley for a pop of color and freshness
Pro Tips for Ingredient Success:
- Quality Matters: Since lasagna is all about layers of flavor opt for high-quality marinara sauce and fresh herbs if you can.
- Customize Your Protein: Not a fan of beef? Swap in ground turkey chicken, or go meatless with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
- Cheese Choices: Use whole-milk ricotta and freshly grated mozzarella for the creamiest meltiest results.
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they’re tender and aromatic (about 3-4 minutes).
Toss in the ground beef or Italian sausage (or both for extra flavor), breaking it into small crumbles as it browns.
Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup of chopped parsley (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Start by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce across the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to keep the lasagna from sticking.
Place a layer of Barilla no-boil lasagna sheets over the sauce, breaking them if needed to fit.
Evenly distribute half of the ricotta mixture over the layer of pasta sheets.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Add another layer of meat sauce, followed by pasta sheets, the remaining ricotta mixture, and another cup of mozzarella.
Finish with a final layer of pasta sheets, the remaining meat sauce, and the last cup of mozzarella.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before cutting into it. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to serve neat, picture-perfect slices.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg