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If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s both simple to make and full of flavor, this easy Barilla lasagna recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a cozy dinner with friends, lasagna always brings everyone to the table. Using high-quality Barilla lasagna noodles and classic Italian ingredients like rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, this dish delivers that authentic, homemade taste with minimal effort. In this post, you’ll learn how to make a delicious lasagna that looks impressive but is easy enough for any night of the week. Let’s get layering!
Why Barilla Lasagna is a Go-To for Easy Italian Dinners
When it comes to creating a comforting and satisfying Italian meal, lasagna is always a favorite. But not all pasta brands are created equal—and that’s where Barilla truly stands out. Known around the world for its high-quality pasta products, Barilla offers consistency, flavor, and ease of use that make it ideal for both beginners and experienced home cooks.
Trusted Quality from a Renowned Brand
Barilla has been a household name for over 145 years, and for good reason. The company is dedicated to using simple, wholesome ingredients to craft pasta that holds its shape, cooks evenly, and complements any sauce. With Barilla lasagna sheets, you get a product that’s been perfected over generations—bringing authentic Italian flavor to your kitchen with every bite.
No-Boil Lasagna Sheets for Convenience
One of the biggest time-savers when making lasagna is using Barilla’s oven-ready (no-boil) lasagna noodles. These sheets eliminate the need for pre-cooking and simplify the entire layering process. Just add your favorite sauce and fillings, and the noodles will cook perfectly in the oven as the lasagna bakes. It’s a small change that makes a big difference, especially for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Perfect for Family Dinners or Entertaining
Lasagna is more than just a meal—it’s a centerpiece. Barilla lasagna holds up beautifully when baked and served, making it ideal for sharing. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish never fails to deliver. With its rich layers and comforting flavors, it’s a recipe that’s always met with smiles and second helpings.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Classic Lasagna Recipe
Making a delicious lasagna at home starts with choosing the right ingredients. For this easy Barilla lasagna recipe, we’re keeping things classic—rich meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta. Each layer is full of flavor and texture, coming together to create a dish that’s hearty, comforting, and always satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:
Barilla Lasagna Noodles
Barilla lasagna noodles are the foundation of this recipe. You can use their classic lasagna sheets or go with the oven-ready (no-boil) version for even more convenience. Both options deliver Barilla’s signature quality—firm, yet tender pasta that holds up well to layering and baking.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage (or Both)
For the traditional meat sauce, ground beef is a go-to, but you can also mix in mild or spicy Italian sausage for extra flavor. Cook the meat with garlic and onions to create a rich base that pairs perfectly with tomato sauce.
Tomato Sauce or Marinara
Choose a high-quality tomato sauce—homemade or store-bought. You can use Barilla’s own line of sauces or any marinara that you love. Simmer it with your cooked meat and herbs like basil and oregano for a savory, well-seasoned sauce.
Cheeses: Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Parmesan
The cheesy trio is what gives lasagna its irresistible creaminess:
- Ricotta cheese creates a soft, creamy layer. You can mix it with an egg and some seasoning for added richness.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced, melts beautifully into gooey, stretchy layers.
- Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, salty finish and helps create that golden top we all love.
Optional Additions and Enhancements
Want to elevate your lasagna even more? Consider adding:
- Fresh basil or parsley for a burst of herby flavor
- Spinach or zucchini for a bit of freshness and a veggie boost
- Crushed red pepper for a touch of heat
With these simple but flavorful ingredients, you’re set to make a classic lasagna that tastes like it came straight from a cozy Italian kitchen.
Step-by-Step: How to Make This Easy Barilla Lasagna
Making lasagna from scratch may seem intimidating, but with Barilla lasagna noodles and a simple, step-by-step process, it’s surprisingly easy. Whether you’re using oven-ready noodles or the classic kind, this guide will walk you through every layer—from sauce to cheese to golden perfection.
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Start by heating a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, then sauté until soft and fragrant. Next, add your ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in your tomato sauce or marinara. Let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. This step builds the rich, savory foundation of your lasagna.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Layer
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with a beaten egg, some grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of salt, and a bit of chopped parsley or basil. This mixture adds creaminess and helps bind the layers. Shred your mozzarella cheese separately and have it ready for layering.
Step 3: Layer the Lasagna
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, begin by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Add a single layer of Barilla lasagna noodles (oven-ready or pre-cooked if needed), followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and another layer of meat sauce. Repeat this process—noodles, cheese, sauce—until you’ve used all your ingredients. Finish with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Cover your dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving much easier (and less messy!).
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Homemade Lasagna
A great lasagna isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s also about the technique. Whether you’re a first-time cook or a seasoned home chef, these helpful tips and tricks will ensure your Barilla lasagna turns out delicious every time. From layering like a pro to avoiding common mistakes, here’s how to make your homemade lasagna taste like it came straight from an Italian kitchen.
Use Oven-Ready Lasagna Noodles to Save Time
Barilla’s oven-ready lasagna noodles are a game changer. They eliminate the need to boil and cool traditional pasta sheets, which saves time and effort. Just be sure to use enough sauce so the noodles can absorb moisture and cook evenly in the oven. For best results, slightly press each layer down before adding the next. To take it up a notch, use a reliable oven like the Ninja DCT451 with Integrated Thermometer and FlavorSeal Technology, which ensures even baking and perfect results every time.
Let the Lasagna Rest Before Slicing
It’s tempting to cut into your lasagna the second it comes out of the oven—but letting it rest for at least 10–15 minutes is key. This short wait time allows the cheese and sauce to settle, making it easier to slice clean, structured portions without everything falling apart.
Balance the Sauce and Cheese
One common mistake is using too much sauce, which can make the lasagna watery and soggy. On the flip side, not enough sauce can leave the noodles dry. Aim for a balanced amount in each layer—just enough to coat without soaking. The same goes for cheese: spread it evenly, but don’t overload any one layer.
Layer Strategically for Structure and Flavor
Start and end with sauce: this prevents sticking and ensures the top gets that beautiful golden crust. A typical layering order is: sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, repeat. Finish with a final layer of noodles topped with sauce, mozzarella, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan for that crispy top.
Freeze Leftovers or Prep Ahead
Lasagna freezes beautifully and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Let the dish cool completely before slicing and wrapping individual servings. You can also assemble it in advance and refrigerate (up to 24 hours) or freeze the unbaked dish—just add 15–20 extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from frozen.
Variations and What to Serve with Your Lasagna
One of the best things about lasagna is how versatile it is. While the classic meat-and-cheese version is a beloved staple, there are countless ways to customize this dish to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or seasonal ingredients. And once your lasagna is in the oven, it’s easy to pull together a few delicious sides to make it a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Tasty Lasagna Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Lasagna
Skip the meat and load up on vegetables like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers. Add layers of ricotta and marinara for a flavorful, hearty meatless meal. - White Sauce (Alfredo) Lasagna
Switch things up by using a creamy béchamel or Alfredo sauce instead of tomato. Pair it with shredded chicken and spinach for a rich, comforting twist on the classic. - Cheesy Four-Cheese Lasagna
For cheese lovers, go all out with a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone or fontina. Add a touch of nutmeg to the cheese mix for a gourmet flair. - Spicy Sausage or Meatball Lasagna
For a bolder flavor, use spicy Italian sausage or sliced homemade meatballs layered with Barilla noodles and marinara. It’s a hearty, satisfying upgrade with a little kick.
Perfect Side Dishes to Serve with Lasagna
- Garlic Bread or Italian Breadsticks
Nothing complements lasagna like warm, buttery garlic bread. Toasted breadsticks or a rustic Italian loaf are perfect for soaking up leftover sauce. - Fresh Green Salad
A crisp side salad balances the richness of lasagna. Toss together romaine or mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and a simple vinaigrette. - Roasted or Steamed Vegetables
Serve lasagna with seasonal vegetables like roasted zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli for a nutritious touch and added texture on the plate. - Antipasto Platter
For a full Italian-themed dinner, start with a small antipasto platter featuring marinated olives, artichoke hearts, cured meats, and cheeses.
Drinks and Dessert Pairings
- Red Wine
A glass of Chianti, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs wonderfully with the savory tomato sauce and rich cheeses. - Italian Sodas or Sparkling Water
For a non-alcoholic option, flavored sparkling water or Italian soda adds a refreshing fizz to your meal. - Classic Italian Desserts
Finish off your lasagna dinner with a sweet treat like tiramisu, cannoli, panna cotta, or even a scoop of gelato for a cool, creamy ending.