Grandmas Secret Ingredient Lasagna

Grandmas Secret Ingredient Best Lasagna Recipe

By Kendra ThompsonSeptember 25, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever crave that warm, comforting hug in a dish? Honestly, the best lasagna recipe does just that. This recipe gives you layers of flavor that'll knock your socks off.

Brief Overview

Lasagna is an Italian classic, basically Italy's answer to a good old Sunday roast. This homemade lasagna recipe may seem like a bit of effort, but trust me, it’s worth it.

It is a medium difficulty task that takes about 2-2. 15 hours and makes enough for 8-10 people.

Main Benefits

One of the biggest wins? It's packed with protein and sneaks in some veggies without the kids even noticing! Serve this crowd pleaser at your next family gathering.

What makes this recipe truly special is the depth of flavor that comes from slow simmering the ragu.

Ready to dive into a classic lasagna recipe ? This version incorporates the creamy lasagna with béchamel sauce I learned from my Nan.

Let's get started with the goods you'll need. Honestly, it reminds me of something you'd have on a date night with your partner!

Now, it is time to dive into ingredients and prep them before baking!

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to create the best lasagna recipe ever! We're going all-out for flavour and comfort here. Think of it as an authentic italian lasagna recipe .

Ingredients & Equipment

Here's a breakdown, so you can get prepped. Trust me, this homemade lasagna recipe is worth the effort.

Main Ingredients

Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
Ground Beef (80/20): 1.5 pounds (680g). Get good quality beef for flavour.
Ground Pork: 0.5 pound (225g). It's optional, but adds a lovely richness.
Yellow Onion: 1 large , chopped (1 cup / 150g)
Celery: 2 stalks , chopped (1/2 cup / 75g)
Carrot: 1 large , chopped (1/2 cup / 75g)
Garlic: 4 cloves , minced
Anchovy Fillets: 2 , minced. This is grandma's secret ingredient . I swear, it melts away and just adds depth.
Dry Red Wine: 1/2 cup (120 ml). A decent Chianti works wonders.
Crushed Tomatoes: 28 ounces (800g). San Marzano are the best !
Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
Bay Leaf: 1
Beef Broth: 1 cup (240 ml)
Salt & Black Pepper: To taste
Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup , chopped
Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (57g / 2 ounces)
All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup (30g / 1 ounce)
Whole Milk: 3 cups (720 ml). Full fat is best for a creamy lasagna with béchamel sauce .
Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon , freshly grated
Salt & White Pepper: To taste
Lasagna Noodles: 1 pound (450g). Oven ready are easy , but traditional is classic.
Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces (425g), whole milk. Avoid the watery stuff.
Large Eggs: 1 , lightly beaten
Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup , grated. Go for the good stuff!
Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups , shredded. Low-moisture is best .

Seasoning Notes

Oregano and basil are key for that classic lasagna recipe flavour. A bay leaf gives depth. And the secret anchovies? They add umami magic.

If you are thinking about lasagna variations try to experiment with different spices and flavours.

A little nutmeg elevates the béchamel. White pepper keeps it looking pristine. Salt, of course, is essential.

Equipment Needed

Large Dutch oven or pot: For the ragu.
9x13 inch baking dish.
Cheese grater.
Whisk: For the béchamel.
Mixing bowls.

Don't have a Dutch oven? A large, heavy bottomed pot will do. No fresh nutmeg? A tiny pinch of ground will work in a pinch.

Remember, this easy lasagna recipe should be about enjoying the process. The best ever lasagna is waiting for you.

Alright, let's get down to business and talk about cooking methods ! Seriously, it's more than just chucking stuff in a pan, innit? It’s about unlocking flavours and textures.

So, grab a cuppa and let's get cracking.

Prep Like a Pro for the Best Lasagna Recipe

Okay, miser en place , people! It basically means "everything in its place." Chop your onions, grate your cheese, measure your spices.

Trust me, it’s the secret to stress free cooking. Keeps you from having a right panic later on. Plus, have you preheated your oven and oiled your baking dish? Now’s the time to get it sorted.

Oh, and a word of warning: remember oven gloves are your best mate when dealing with hot trays. Safety first, always! You don't want to ruin the lasagna by dropping it everywhere! We're aiming for grandma's lasagna recipe quality, not A&E.

Making the Homemade Lasagna Recipe : step-by-step

First, brown your mince on a medium high heat. We're talking a nice, even brown, not grey and sad-looking.
Next, add your chopped veggies. Soften them until they're sweet and translucent. About 5 minutes will do it.
Now, stir in your tinned tomatoes and herbs. Let it simmer for at least 20 minutes , or longer if you have time. The longer, the better the flavour, honestly.
Make the easy lasagna recipe come alive by making up your white sauce. Melt butter, stir in flour, then gradually add milk until it's thick and smooth, and you have a lasagna with béchamel sauce . Season to taste.
Get your lasagna dish, spoon some of the mince into the base. Then put a layer of pasta sheets, white sauce, and repeat!
Sprinkle with cheese, then bake in a preheated oven at 180° C for 25 minutes , until it's golden brown and bubbly. It should be reaching an internal temperature of 74° C for food safety.
And that's it! Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for That Classic Lasagna Recipe

Honestly, don't overcrowd the pan when browning your mince. It will steam instead of browning. Trust me, it makes a huge difference to the flavour.

If you want to make this ahead, assemble the italian lasagna recipe , then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours .

Add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time. I do that to avoid cooking on a busy day.

Also, don't skip the resting time! It allows the lasagna to set. Nobody likes a sloppy lasagna! This way everyone can enjoy the best ever lasagna .

This lasagna recipe with ricotta will become a family heirloom! So, there you have it my (hypothetical) tips for cracking the perfect lasagna.

Now go forth and create your own authentic lasagna recipe ! Don't be afraid to add some of your personality maybe a sprinkle of chilli flakes for a kick or some roasted vegetables for a lasagna variation .

Happy cooking!

Recipe Notes: Nailing Your Best Lasagna Recipe

Alright, you've got the blueprint for the absolute best lasagna recipe ! But before you dive in, let’s chat about a few things that'll make your homemade lasagna recipe truly shine.

Think of these as my little grandma's lasagna recipe secrets, passed down... well, imagined, but still super helpful.

Presentation Power: From Oven to Ooh La La

How you plate it matters. Trust me. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness.

You know that lovely rustic vibe? That’s what we are going for. Also, think about portion size. A slightly smaller portion served with a nice side is always more appealing than a massive slab that looks like it came straight out of a school cafeteria.

What goes with lasagna? Honestly, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Some crusty garlic bread for soaking up that delicious ragu is a must! And maybe a glass of Italian red wine? Salute!

Storing Leftovers: Lasagna Tomorrow? Yes, Please!

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This classic lasagna recipe tastes even better the next day. For refrigeration, let the lasagna cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap.

It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days, easy peasy.

Freezing is an option, too! Cut the cooled lasagna into individual portions, wrap them well in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag.

It’ll stay good for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Bake, covered, at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through, then uncover for the last 10- 15 minutes to crisp up the top.

Microwave works too, but you might lose some of that lovely texture.

Lasagna Variations : Let's Get Creative!

Fancy a change? Let's talk lasagna variations! Ditching meat? Swap the ground beef and pork for roasted veggies like zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms for a delish vegetarian twist on this italian lasagna recipe .

Trying to cut down on dairy? You can use a lighter ricotta or even try a cashew based cream sauce instead of béchamel. Honestly, though, that lasagna with béchamel sauce is pretty epic.

Seasonal swaps? In the summer, fresh basil is a must . In the fall, try adding some roasted butternut squash to the ragu. The possibilities are endless!.

Nutrition Basics : Fueling Your Body

Okay, let's be real, this isn't exactly a health food. It's best ever lasagna . It's comfort food, pure and simple.

Each serving has a fair whack of calories, protein, fats and carbohydrates, which is great for refuelling after a big walking day around London.

Right then, off you pop to make this easy lasagna recipe . Give it a go! You've got this! Don't overthink it.

You'll end up with an authentic lasagna recipe you will be proud of, and If you mess up? Who cares? It's just dinner.

Have fun with this homemade lasagna recipe !

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the secret to preventing my lasagna from being watery?

Nobody wants a soggy bottom! The key is to ensure your ragu is properly thickened by simmering it long enough, and to avoid over layering the sauce. Also, make sure to drain your ricotta cheese well, or even better, use a whole milk ricotta, which tends to be less watery.

Lastly, letting the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes after baking allows it to set up properly and absorb any excess moisture.

Can I make this best lasagna recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making lasagna ahead of time is a brilliant idea, especially if you're entertaining. You can assemble the entire lasagna, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.

It's like giving the flavours a chance to have a right good natter!

I'm a vegetarian can I adapt this recipe?

You bet your sweet bippy you can! Simply replace the ground beef and pork with a medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms, and spinach. You can also add some lentils or crumbled vegetarian sausage for extra protein and substance.

A dash of smoked paprika can give it a nice meaty flavour without the meat.

How do I store leftover lasagna?

Leftover lasagna is like a delicious gift that keeps on giving! Allow the lasagna to cool completely before wrapping individual slices in foil or placing them in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2-3 months; just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.

What are some variations I can make to this best lasagna recipe?

Besides going veggie, the possibilities are endless! Try adding some Italian sausage to the ragu for a spicier kick. You could also swap out the béchamel for a simple ricotta cheese layer. For a real treat, try adding some truffle oil to the ricotta mixture!

Each tweak can tailor the dish perfectly to your tastes, from a cozy night in to a fancy dinner party.

Is this lasagna recipe healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?

Lasagna, while comforting, isn't exactly a health food, but you can make it a bit lighter. Use lean ground beef, reduce the amount of cheese, and add plenty of vegetables. Opting for whole wheat lasagna noodles can also boost the fiber content.

Remember, moderation is key, and it's perfectly fine to enjoy a slice as part of a balanced diet. Always consider portion size to manage calorie intake.