As I stirred the bubbling pot of homemade meat sauce, the rich aroma wafted through the air, evoking memories of family dinners filled with laughter and warmth. Today, I’m excited to share Martha Stewart’s Traditional Lasagna with Homemade Meat Sauce—a dish that effortlessly combines nostalgia with a touch of sophistication. Featuring layers of tender pasta and a flavor-packed sauce, this lasagna delights the senses while boasting the irresistible perks of quick prep and crowd-pleasing results. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving comforting food, this recipe will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian trattoria. Are you ready to dive into a world of savory layers and cheesy goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this lasagna unforgettable?
Comforting warmth: The layers of soft noodles intertwine with a savory homemade meat sauce, giving you a taste of traditional Italian cooking.
Quick and easy prep: This recipe uses uncooked noodles, allowing you to save time without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable delights: Whether you’re a meat lover or a veggie enthusiast, you can easily adapt this lasagna to fit your preferences—try swapping meats for sautéed zucchini and mushrooms!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s a meal that brings everyone together, just like my Chicken Alfredo Lasagna variation.
Rich, complex flavors: Each bite offers a perfect blend of savory meat, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, making it impossible to resist!
Martha Stewart’s Lasagna Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
• Ground Beef – Main protein; can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Italian Sausage – Adds flavor and richness; use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
• Onions – Base flavor, providing sweetness when sautéed; consider shallots for a milder taste.
• Carrots & Celery – Aromatic vegetables that enhance depth; omit if unavailable, but both create a richer sauce.
• Garlic – Essential for flavor; fresh is preferred, but powdered can work in a pinch.
• Dried Oregano – Adds traditional Italian flavor; substitute with Italian seasoning if needed.
• Red Pepper Flakes – For heat; omit if a milder dish is desired.
• Tomato Paste & Puréed Tomatoes – Create the sauce base; swap with tomato sauce for simpler preparation.
For the Cheese Mixture
• Ricotta Cheese – Provides a creamy layer and is traditional in lasagna; cottage cheese can be a lighter substitute.
• Eggs – Bind ricotta; substitute with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water for an egg-free version.
• Parmesan Cheese – Enhances flavor and serves as a topping; nutritional yeast can replace it for a dairy-free option.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Adds a gooey texture on top; vegan cheese is great for a dairy-free alternative.
• Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness and herbal notes; dried parsley can be used in lesser quantity.
This classic Martha Stewart’s Lasagna recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Martha Stewart’s Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until soft—approximately 5 minutes. Then, stir in the ground beef and Italian sausage, cooking until browned. Add minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes, letting them infuse for about 1 minute. Pour in tomato paste and puréed tomatoes, simmering gently for 15 minutes until thickened.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, a splash of milk, eggs, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, and chopped fresh parsley. Blend thoroughly until creamy and well-integrated. This cheese mixture will create a luscious layer in your lasagna, enhancing its overall flavor. Set this aside as you prepare to layer the lasagna.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the prepared meat sauce on the bottom. Place dry lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, spreading evenly. Repeat this layering process with more meat sauce and noodles, until you create a total of three layers, finishing with a generous layer of meat sauce on top.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top layer of meat sauce. This will create a beautiful, cheesy crust as it bakes. For added flavor, sprinkle a touch of dried oregano on top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, ensuring the cheese won’t stick to it during baking.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the lasagna for 45 minutes with the foil in place to retain moisture and ensure even cooking. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden-brown, creating a mouthwatering topping.
Step 6: Let it Rest
Once out of the oven, allow your Martha Stewart’s Lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This crucial step helps the layers to set and makes serving easier. The delicious layers will stay intact, giving you perfect slices filled with that savory meat sauce and creamy cheese in every bite.
Variations & Substitutions for Martha Stewart’s Lasagna
Feeling inspired to make Martha Stewart’s Lasagna your own? Discover these fun twists and swaps, allowing you to tailor this classic dish to your taste buds!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground beef and sausage with sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach to create a colorful veggie-packed lasagna. The flavors will delight both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike!
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Cheesy Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese for a creamy, tangy bite, or try a blend of mozzarella and fontina for an extra decadent layer. Each cheese adds a unique character to the dish.
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Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of heat, add a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture. This way, every slice delivers a pleasant warmth!
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or thyme into the cheese filling for an aromatic touch. These herbs elevate the dish with a burst of freshness that beautifully complements the rich flavors.
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Whole Wheat Noodles: Opt for whole wheat lasagna noodles as a healthy alternative that adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to your meal. It’s a simple switch that doesn’t skimp on taste!
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Pesto Boost: Layer in some pesto between the noodles for an unexpected burst of flavor and freshness. It adds a sophisticated twist that pairs wonderfully with the creamy layers.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions. The rest of the flavors remain rich and satisfying!
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Creamy Ricotta Substitute: Swap ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option without losing the creamy texture. It’s an easy trick for those looking to cut calories while still enjoying this indulgent recipe.
Enhancing your wonderful lasagna recipe can be a culinary adventure! And if you’re in the mood for other delicious baked pasta dishes, consider trying my delightful Chicken Alfredo Lasagna. The variations are endless!
What to Serve with Martha Stewart’s Lasagna
Transform your gathering into a delightful feast with these perfect companions that enhance every bite of your comforting lasagna.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, crispy slices are ideal for soaking up the rich meat sauce, making them a beloved addition to any Italian meal.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons add freshness and a tangy kick that balance the hearty lasagna perfectly.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of caramelized seasonal veggies gives a textural contrast and a nutritious boost, enhancing your plate with vibrant colors.
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Tiramisu: This classic Italian dessert brings a heavenly coffee-flavored finish to your meal, making every dining experience feel like a special occasion.
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Chianti Wine: Its robust flavors complement the savory notes of the lasagna, creating an elegant pairing that enriches the entire experience.
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Antipasto Platter: A colorful array of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables serves as a vibrant starter, setting the perfect tone for your meal.
Each of these accompaniments is designed to elevate your lasagna, making it not just a dish, but a heartwarming celebration of flavors.
Storage Tips for Martha Stewart’s Lasagna
Fridge: Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven to enjoy a quick meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze lasagna wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
Serving: For best results, let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes after reheating before slicing, ensuring that each piece retains its beautiful layers and flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Martha Stewart’s Lasagna preparations are perfect for busy weeknights and make dinner a breeze! You can prepare the meat sauce and cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can assemble the entire lasagna, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. Just be sure to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, pop it in the oven, and in no time you’ll have a satisfying meal that tastes just as delicious as the day you made it!
Expert Tips for Martha Stewart’s Lasagna
• Noodle Coverage: Ensure all noodles are covered with sauce to prevent them from becoming crunchy during baking.
• Cheese Layering: Don’t skimp on the cheese mixture; it’s essential for that creamy texture. Spread it evenly between layers for the best result.
• Resting Time: Let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it perfect for serving without falling apart.
• Homemade Sauce: If using homemade sauce, consider making it the day before. This allows the flavors to deepen, enhancing your overall dish.
• Baking Tips: Check the lasagna towards the end of baking; if the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and high-quality cheeses for a rich, flavorful experience; it makes a significant difference in Martha Stewart’s Lasagna.
Martha Stewart’s Lasagna Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select fresh ingredients for my lasagna?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, go for ground beef that’s bright red and avoid any meat with a grayish tint. For vegetables like onions, they should feel firm and heavy for their size, while carrots should be crisp without dark spots. Opt for cheese with a past date that’s still well within its expiration, as freshness greatly impacts flavor.
How should I store leftover lasagna?
You can refrigerate your leftover Martha Stewart’s Lasagna in an airtight container for up to 4 days. I recommend placing parchment paper between the slices, which helps maintain moisture and prevents sticking. For long-term storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze lasagna, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze Martha Stewart’s Lasagna, allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap the entire dish tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Or, you can individualize portions in airtight containers. To reheat, thaw the lasagna overnight in the refrigerator before baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until hot.
What should I do if my lasagna noodles are still crunchy after baking?
The key to ensuring your noodles are perfectly cooked is to make sure they are fully covered in sauce. If you find that they are crunchy, it could be because there wasn’t enough moisture. If making from scratch, consider using ovensafe parchment paper under the foil while baking to trap steam. If you’re still facing issues, try baking with the foil on for longer; about 15-20 minutes to give the noodles more time to soften.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! For those with dairy allergies, you can easily substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with vegan alternatives—there are excellent nut-based cheeses on the market nowadays. Additionally, for gluten-free diets, look for gluten-free lasagna noodles, which work just as well in this recipe. Always check labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Martha Stewart's Lasagna: A Cozy Classic with Homemade Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until soft—approximately 5 minutes. Then, stir in the ground beef and Italian sausage, cooking until browned. Add minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes, letting them infuse for about 1 minute. Pour in tomato paste and puréed tomatoes, simmering gently for 15 minutes until thickened.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, a splash of milk, eggs, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, and chopped fresh parsley. Blend thoroughly until creamy and well-integrated.
- In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the prepared meat sauce on the bottom. Place dry lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, spreading evenly. Repeat this layering process with more meat sauce and noodles, until you create a total of three layers, finishing with a generous layer of meat sauce on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top layer of meat sauce. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the lasagna for 45 minutes with the foil in place. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden-brown.
- Once out of the oven, allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
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