How to Make Lasagna with Oven-Ready Noodles: A Simple Guide

Cooking lasagna doesn't have to be complicated, especially when you use oven-ready noodles. This method simplifies the process, making it easy to whip up a delicious meal in no time. Here’s a straightforward recipe to guide you through the process from start to finish.

Ingredients

Oven-ready lasagna noodles (no-boil) Ricotta cheese (15 oz) Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups) Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup) Marinara sauce (4 cups) Egg (1, optional for the ricotta mixture) Salt and pepper to taste Italian seasoning (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your lasagna bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden crust on the top.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

Place the ricotta cheese in a bowl. If desired, add the egg and mix well. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Mix until well combined. This step can get your kitchen smelling like lasagna while setting the foundation for a rich, flavorful dish.

Layer the Ingredients

Now it's time to start layering your ingredients. This method helps to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, ensuring that every bite is deliciously satisfying.

Bottom Layer: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, about 1 cup. Noodle Layer: Place a layer of oven-ready noodles over the sauce. Cheese Layer: Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles. Follow it with a layer of marinara sauce and sprinkle with a third of the mozzarella cheese.

Once this first layer is complete, repeat the process until all ingredients are used. The final layer should be noodles topped with marinara sauce, and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Cover and Bake

Take a sheet of aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray. Cover the baking dish to keep moisture in and prevent sticking. Place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes.

Uncover and Brown

Remove the foil after 25 minutes and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown, indicating that it's perfectly cooked.

Rest

Once done, let the lasagna rest for about 15 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier. During this time, enjoy some relaxing moments in your kitchen, savoring the sweet smell of cooking lasagna.

Serve

Cut into squares and serve hot. This method makes it easy to prepare a hearty lasagna without the need for pre-cooking the noodles!

Tips

You can add cooked ground meat or vegetables to the sauce for extra flavor and texture. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs and spices. Adding a pinch of basil or a dash of garlic powder can elevate the flavor profile.

Enjoy your delicious lasagna! With this simple recipe, you can impress your family and friends with a perfectly delicious and easy-to-make lasagna using oven-ready noodles.