When it comes to weeknight dinners, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting plate of lasagna. This classic Italian dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, can be customized with your favorite ingredients, and always seems to hit the spot. But let’s face it: sometimes making traditional lasagna from scratch just isn’t feasible (or realistic) on a busy Monday night. That’s why we’ve rounded up 18 delicious and easy lasagna recipes that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. From classic beef and ricotta combinations to veggie-packed options and even deconstructed lasagna soups, there’s something here for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore the best of the best in easy lasagna recipes, from tried-and-true classics to innovative twists on the original. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Classic Beef Lasagna with Ricotta
Classic Beef Lasagna with Ricotta: A Hearty Italian-Inspired Dish
This timeless recipe combines tender beef ragù, creamy ricotta cheese, and layered pasta for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 16 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Combine cooked beef with marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Assemble lasagna by spreading a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of noodles, then the ricotta mixture, and finally another layer of meat sauce. Repeat for 3-4 layers.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Vegetable Spinach Lasagna
This hearty vegetarian lasagna recipe combines the flavors of sautéed vegetables and wilted spinach with a rich tomato sauce, all wrapped up in layers of pasta and cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, etc.)
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. Sauté mixed vegetables in a little oil until tender, then set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and spinach; cook until heated through.
5. Assemble the lasagna by layering cooked noodles, vegetable mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
White Chicken Alfredo Lasagna
This classic Italian-American dish combines the richness of white chicken alfredo sauce with the comforting layers of lasagna noodles, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken breasts, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic powder and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese.
5. Assemble lasagna by layering noodles, white chicken mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy No-Boil Lasagna
Say goodbye to tedious noodle boiling and hello to a stress-free, flavorful lasagna experience! This recipe uses pre-cooked lasagna noodles and a simple assembly process to create a mouthwatering dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. lasagna noodles (pre-cooked)
– 1 jar marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 lb. ground beef or sausage, cooked and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
3. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
4. Add half of the cheese mixture, followed by half of the ground beef or sausage mixture.
5. Repeat layers: marinara sauce, noodles, cheese mixture, and meat mixture.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Three-Cheese Lasagna
A classic Italian dish with a twist! This lasagna combines the richness of mozzarella, the creaminess of ricotta, and the tanginess of parmesan cheese for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
5. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat layers: marinara sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Top with grated parmesan cheese.
8. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Slow Cooker Lasagna
Elevate your lasagna game with this easy and convenient slow cooker recipe. Layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese meld together to create a satisfying, comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28-ounce canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes; bring to a simmer.
4. Arrange lasagna noodles in the slow cooker.
5. Spread half of the meat sauce over noodles, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat layers: noodles, meat sauce, mozzarella cheese, and finally Parmesan cheese.
7. Cook on Low for 3-4 hours or High for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (Low), 1-2 hours (High)
Mexican Lasagna with Ground Turkey
This flavorful lasagna combines the richness of ground turkey with the bold flavors of Mexico, perfect for a unique and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of turkey mixture, followed by lasagna noodles, cheese, and cilantro. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with cheese on top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Zucchini Lasagna (Low-Carb)
A creative twist on the classic Italian dish, this low-carb zucchini lasagna recipe replaces traditional noodles with thinly sliced zucchinis. The result is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. Cook the ground beef or turkey in a skillet until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers of zucchini, meat mixture, and cheese mixture, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pesto Lasagna with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your lasagna game with this creative twist, combining the classic Italian dish with roasted vegetables and a flavorful pesto sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce and marinara sauce. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
4. In a separate bowl, mix mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of the pasta mixture, followed by a layer of roasted vegetables, then a sprinkle of the cheese mixture. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lasagna Soup (Deconstructed Lasagna)
Elevate your comfort food game with this creative take on traditional lasagna. This deconstructed version brings the flavors and textures of lasagna to a hearty, warming soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup chopped fresh mushrooms
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 8 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add broken lasagna noodles; cook for 10-12 minutes or until al dente.
5. Ladle into bowls and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skillet Lasagna for Two
Skillet Lasagna for Two: A Twist on Classic Comfort Food
This recipe serves two people and combines the best of lasagna with the ease of cooking in a skillet. Perfect for a cozy night in or a romantic dinner, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8-10 lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the broken lasagna noodles to the skillet and stir to combine with the meat sauce.
6. Top the noodle mixture with the shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Lasagna Roll-Ups with Marinara
Savor the classic flavors of lasagna in a creative new way with these roll-ups. A simple twist on the traditional pasta dish, this recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 pound ground beef or sausage, cooked and drained
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
4. Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the cheese mixture and mix until combined.
5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on each noodle. Place about 1/4 cup of the cheese-beef mixture in the center of each noodle.
6. Roll up noodles tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
7. Top with additional marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggplant Lasagna (Vegetarian)
This vegetarian take on traditional lasagna replaces meat with tender eggplant slices, layered with rich tomato sauce and creamy ricotta cheese. Perfect for a comforting dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and basil.
3. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened; add marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and a pinch of salt.
5. Assemble lasagna by layering eggplant slices, tomato sauce mixture, and ricotta cheese mixture in a baking dish.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Lasagna
Elevate your lasagna game with the bold flavors of spicy sausage and roasted peppers. This twist on a classic Italian dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large red bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large yellow onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add peppers, onion, and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, combine marinara sauce and cooked sausage mixture.
5. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
6. Assemble lasagna by spreading sauce on bottom of baking dish, layering with noodles, cheese, and pepper mixture. Repeat two more times, ending with cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Gluten-Free Lasagna with Quinoa Noodles
Elevate your pasta game with this innovative recipe that swaps traditional lasagna noodles for quinoa-based alternatives, creating a gluten-free masterpiece. This dish is perfect for those looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal without the guilt.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 quinoa lasagna noodles
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or turkey until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Layer cooked noodles, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lazy Lasagna Casserole
A comforting and easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for a busy day or a crowd-pleasing dinner. This recipe is a twist on traditional lasagna, with layers of pasta, meat sauce, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz lasagna noodles
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, then add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked lasagna noodles, meat sauce, and 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread half the noodle mixture in the bottom.
7. Top with remaining noodle mixture, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and beaten egg.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Instant Pot Lasagna
Transform traditional lasagna into a quick and easy pressure cooker meal with this Instant Pot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 8 oz lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in the Instant Pot using the “Saute” function until cooked through.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Place 2-3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce mixture in the Instant Pot.
5. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 8 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Taco Lasagna with Black Beans
Elevate your lasagna game with this flavorful and nutritious twist, combining the bold flavors of taco seasoning with the comfort of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey, browned and seasoned with taco seasoning
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine browned ground beef or turkey, diced onion, minced garlic, and taco seasoning. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, heat black beans with some water until warmed through.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading a layer of meat mixture, followed by black beans, then cheese. Repeat this process 2-3 times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 18 delicious and easy lasagna recipes! From classic beef and ricotta to vegetable-packed and low-carb options, there’s something for everyone. Discover unique twists like slow cooker and skillet lasagnas, as well as deconstructed lasagna soup and lasagna roll-ups. Whether you’re in the mood for meaty, cheesy, or veggie-based, these easy-to-make recipes will become new favorites.