The Easiest Lasagna Recipe Ever

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Let’s talk about lasagna but not the kind that keeps you in the kitchen for hours and turns your sink into a cheese-crusted war zone. Nope. This is The Easiest Lasagna Recipe Ever. And I’m not exaggerating. There are no noodles to pre-cook, no blocks of cheese to grate, and no need to whip up a fancy homemade sauce from scratch.

Just seven ingredients, one pan, and a cheesy, saucy masterpiece that will have your family (and maybe your neighbors) asking for seconds.

Whether you’re a home cook, a student living off a mini fridge, a busy parent trying to avoid dinner mutiny, or someone who just wants a win in the kitchen today, this recipe’s for you.

Why This Lasagna is a Game-Changer

You know those meals you make once and then can’t stop making? Yeah, this is one of those. Here’s why:

No pre-cooking noodles. We’re using traditional uncooked lasagna noodles, and they magically cook in the oven thanks to our saucy shortcut.
Only 7 ingredients. That’s it. No mile-long grocery list.
One pan. Less mess, fewer dishes.
Weeknight friendly. Prep takes 15 minutes. That’s less time than it takes to scroll through Netflix looking for something to watch while you eat.
Family-tested, kid-approved. Even picky eaters get behind this one.
Freezer-friendly. Leftovers reheat beautifully.

If you love Italian-inspired comfort meals, this lasagna will fit right in on your weekly rotation.

Watch the Magic Happen

Want to see how easy this really is? Check out our video walkthrough and follow along step-by-step. Watching the layers come together is half the fun. (Spoiler: there’s a lot of cheese pulling involved.)

Your 7 Lasagna MVPs

You don’t need a cart full of groceries. Just these basics:

Ground Beef (10-16 oz) – We recommend 85% lean for the best flavor and texture. You can use leaner if you like.
Rao’s Tomato Basil Marinara (24 oz) – This sauce is a flavor bomb right out of the jar.
Vegetable Broth (3/4 cup) – Adds moisture so your uncooked noodles bake to perfection.
Uncooked Lasagna Noodles (6 sheets) – Use regular dry noodles. Not oven-ready. Not no-boil.
Whole Milk Ricotta (1 cup) – Creamy and rich. Part-skim also works.
Shredded Mozzarella (2 cups) – Feel free to use block or pre-shredded.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup) – Salty and sharp, it’s our final cheesy flourish.

Want to swap beef for mushrooms? Go for it. Want to add a cheese blend for lasagna? Absolutely.

How to Make The Easiest Lasagna Recipe Ever

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Set your oven to 375°F. Spray a 12×8-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Easy peasy.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook your ground beef until browned. Drain any extra fat, but leave some for flavor if you’re into that.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Pour in the Rao’s marinara and vegetable broth. Simmer for about 5 minutes until everything’s cozy and saucy.

Step 4: Build the Layers

This is where the magic happens:

Spread 1/3 of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
Lay down 3 lasagna noodles.
Dollop and spread 1/2 of the ricotta over the noodles.
Sprinkle on 1/2 of the mozzarella and 1/2 of the parmesan.
Repeat: Sauce → Noodles → Ricotta → Rest of Sauce
Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Cover with foil and bake for 40-45 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake another 10 minutes to get that golden, bubbly top.

Step 6: Rest & Slice

This part’s important: Let it rest 5 minutes before cutting. It firms up and slices clean. That means no sloppy mess on your plate.

Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.

FAQ + Tips to Make It Your Own

Can I freeze this?

Yes! After baking, let it cool completely. Wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Is there a vegetarian option?

Absolutely. Sautéed mushrooms or a veggie blend work great.

Can I use another sauce?

Sure. Classico Four Cheese is a solid option—just reduce the broth to 1/2 cup to avoid too much moisture.

What if I don’t have ricotta?

Try cottage cheese or make a white sauce alternative. But ricotta keeps it simple and rich.

Lazy lasagna trick?

Make it in advance, refrigerate, then bake later.

Extra cheesy tip:

Mix mozzarella with provolone or fontina for even more creamy cheese layers.

What to Serve With Lasagna

Cheesy layered lasagna slice with visible meat and noodles on a white plate

Looking to round out your meal? Here are some winners:

Crusty garlic bread or perfect side dish for lasagna nights
A crisp easy side salad for pasta dishes
Steamed broccoli or asparagus
Hearty soup recipes to pair with pasta
Fancy night? Try Italian shrimp dishes for special occasions

More Dinner Ideas You’ll Crave

Still hungry? Keep dinner easy with these favorites: