Italian Pasta

Maggiano's Lasagna Recipe

Bring the rich, creamy layers of Maggiano’s classic lasagna to your kitchen with tender noodles, savory meat, and lush cheese.

The first time I made this at home, the kitchen filled with a gentle, milky aroma as the cheese melted into bubbling, golden ribbons over the deep, tomato-tinged meat.

Make this when you want to impress family or simply treat yourself to a slow-cooked, comforting bake that feels extra special on weeknights and Sundays alike.

I remember sharing a huge pan with friends and watching even the last crispy edges disappear, proving that restaurant quality is totally doable at home.

Recipe at a Glance

⏱Prep Time30 mins

🔥Cook Time1 hour 10 mins

🕐Total Time2 hours 10 mins

🍰Servings12 generous servings

🇺🇸CuisineItalian American

🔢Calories~420 per serving

Ingredients

Meat Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion finely chopped

3 cloves garlic minced

1 pound ground beef

1 pound ground Italian sausage

1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

salt and freshly ground black pepper

Cheese Mixture

15 ounces ricotta cheese

1 large egg

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried

salt and freshly ground black pepper

Other

12 no boil lasagna noodles or 12 regular lasagna noodles cooked according to package

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese extra for topping

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese extra for topping

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Substitutions & Variations

★Use ground turkey or plant based crumbles for a lighter version.

★Swap ricotta with blended cottage cheese mixed with an egg for a similar texture.

★If you prefer gluten free, use gluten free lasagna noodles or thinly sliced roasted eggplant.

★Add spinach or zucchini to the sauce for extra vegetables.

★Use smoked paprika instead of red pepper flakes for a milder warmth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Build the rich meat sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic, then add ground beef and Italian sausage, cooking until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat, then stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors deepen.

2

Prepare the creamy cheese mixture

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside. This will create a lush, velvety layer between the noodles and meat sauce.

3

Preheat the oven and prepare the pan

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and help the noodles cook evenly.

4

Spread the first noodle layer

Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping to cover the bottom. If using regular noodles, ensure they are well cooked and drained.

5

Add a generous cheese layer

Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with a cup of mozzarella cheese and some extra Parmesan for that classic stretchy top.

6

Repeat with more sauce and noodles

Add another layer of meat sauce, followed by a second layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, and another portion of meat sauce.

7

Finish with mozzarella and Parmesan

Top with the last of the noodles, remaining meat sauce, and sprinkle with the additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The golden crust will form as it bakes.

8

Bake until bubbly and golden

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling, golden, and lightly browned on the edges.

9

Let it rest before serving

Allow the lasagna to rest for 15 minutes. This helps the layers set so each slice holds together beautifully and stays creamy.

10

Garnish and serve

Slice into generous portions, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like, and serve with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete dinner.

Pro Baker Tips

✓Letting the lasagna rest before cutting keeps the layers intact and makes serving easier.

✓For deeper flavor, refrigerate the assembled lasagna for a few hours or overnight before baking.

✓Use low sodium cheese and sauce if you prefer to control the salt level.

✓A high quality imported Parmesan adds a rich, nutty finish.

✓Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven to keep the texture creamy.

Storage & Serving Notes

◆Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

◆Reheat on low in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warm, or about 20 minutes, to refresh the crust.

◆Freeze unbaked portions for up to 3 months, then bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the covered bake time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this comforting lasagna hot from the oven for a crowd pleasing centerpiece on any special day.

›Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic knot bread

›Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color

›Add a simple side of roasted vegetables for balance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead and bake later

Yes, assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add about 10 to 15 minutes to the covered bake time if coming straight from the fridge.

What is the best cheese for a creamy texture

A mix of whole milk ricotta, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan gives that lush, creamy yet structured bite.

Can I use no boil noodles

Absolutely, no boil noodles work perfectly as they soften in the oven. Just be sure your sauce has enough moisture for even cooking.

How do I avoid a watery lasagna

Pat ground meat dry while browning, use no boil noodles if your sauce is rich, and let the lasagna rest before slicing.

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Go Make It!

This Maggiano inspired lasagna brings restaurant style comfort to your table, proving that a little care in layering and simmering turns simple ingredients into something truly memorable.