10 Best Barilla Lasagna Recipes for Delicious Family Dinners

Barilla Lasagna is a beloved comfort food that brings layers of rich flavors together in a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. From the perfectly seasoned meat sauce to the creamy ricotta and gooey melted cheese, a good lasagna is all about balance and texture. However, the foundation of any great lasagna starts with one crucial element: the noodles.

Barilla lasagna noodles stand out for several reasons, making them an essential component of this recipe. Known for their high-quality ingredients and superior texture, Barilla noodles hold up exceptionally well during baking, absorbing the flavors of the sauce and cheese without becoming mushy. Whether you’re using the traditional oven-ready noodles or the classic variety that requires boiling, Barilla offers a reliable and consistent product that guarantees a delicious result every time. If you are looking to complement your lasagna with a unique and flavorful side dish? Try our Pineapple Casserole Recipe: Sweet, Savory, and Simple! for a delightful twist that pairs perfectly with hearty Italian cuisine.

What makes Barilla lasagna noodles special?

Durability and Consistency: Barilla’s noodles are specifically designed to maintain their shape and texture, even after long baking times, ensuring your lasagna comes out perfectly layered and intact.
Rich Flavor: Made from durum wheat semolina, Barilla noodles have a natural, nutty flavor that complements the richness of the lasagna sauce and the creamy cheeses.
Convenience: Barilla’s oven-ready lasagna noodles eliminate the need for pre-boiling, making them a time-saving choice for busy home cooks.
Perfect Fit for Layers: The width and thickness of Barilla’s noodles allow for sturdy layers, which means more filling and fewer breaks during assembly.

With Barilla as the star ingredient for your lasagna noodles, you can be confident that your dish will have the perfect texture, allowing the savory sauce, rich cheese, and tender meats to shine through. Now, let’s dive into the recipe and discover how Barilla noodles elevate this classic comfort food to a new level of deliciousness.

Ingredients for Barilla Lasagna

To make a classic and flavorful Barilla Lasagna, you’ll need a mix of high-quality ingredients that combine for a rich, satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need to make a traditional lasagna with Barilla lasagna noodles:

For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for added flavor)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 can (14.5 oz) tomato sauce
1 tbsp sugar (to balance acidity)
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Layer:

15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (preferably whole-milk mozzarella for better melt and flavor)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, beaten (to bind the cheese mixture)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For the Noodles:

1 box Barilla lasagna noodles (you can choose between oven-ready or traditional noodles depending on your preference)

Optional for Garnish:

Fresh basil leaves, for topping
Extra grated Parmesan, for serving

With these ingredients, you’ll have everything needed to make a hearty, flavorful lasagna that holds together beautifully, thanks to the sturdy texture of Barilla lasagna noodles. These noodles absorb the rich meat sauce and complement the creamy cheese layers, creating the perfect lasagna experience.

Tools You’ll Need

To make a perfect Barilla lasagna, having the right tools can make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s a list of essential tools you’ll need for preparing and baking your lasagna:

1. Large Pot

For boiling the traditional Barilla lasagna noodles (if not using the oven-ready variety), you’ll need a large pot to cook the noodles. Make sure it’s big enough to comfortably hold the noodles and enough water to prevent sticking.

2. Colander

To drain the lasagna noodles after boiling. If you’re using the oven-ready noodles, this step isn’t necessary, but it’s essential for traditional noodles.

3. Skillet or Large Pan

You’ll need a skillet to brown the ground beef (or mixed meat) for the sauce. A large pan will allow you to sauté the onions and garlic and cook the meat evenly.

4. Saucepan

A medium or large saucepan is necessary for simmering the tomato sauce. You’ll cook the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and other sauce ingredients in this pan to create the rich, flavorful sauce that forms the base of your lasagna.

5. 9×13-inch Baking Dish

This is the classic size for baking lasagna. A 9×13-inch dish provides enough space for layering the noodles, sauce, and cheese, while allowing everything to cook evenly in the oven.

6. Wooden Spoon or Spatula

To stir the meat sauce while cooking and to mix the ricotta cheese mixture for the cheese layer.

7. Mixing Bowls

You’ll need at least two mixing bowls: one for combining the ricotta, mozzarella, egg, and Parmesan, and another for mixing the seasonings and tomatoes for the sauce.

8. Aluminum Foil

For covering the lasagna while it bakes. This helps to prevent the top from over-browning while the lasagna cooks through. Remove it during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to get bubbly and golden.

9. Ladle

For scooping and spreading the meat sauce evenly across the layers of noodles.

10. Sharp Knife

A sharp knife is useful for chopping onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, as well as cutting the finished lasagna into neat, even pieces.

11. Cooling Rack or Trivet

Once the lasagna is out of the oven, you’ll want to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. A cooling rack or trivet will help the lasagna cool evenly and prevent it from getting soggy.

With these tools on hand, you’ll be ready to create a delicious lasagna that’s layered with love and rich flavors, all held together by the high-quality Barilla lasagna noodles.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Barilla Lasagna

Making a Barilla lasagna from scratch is a rewarding and delicious process. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfectly layered lasagna that’s sure to impress.

1. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles

If you’re using traditional Barilla lasagna noodles:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the lasagna noodles to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside.
If you’re using oven-ready Barilla noodles: No boiling required! Just set them aside, and they’ll be ready to layer directly into your baking dish.

2. Make the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef (or your choice of meat) to the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown the meat for about 5-7 minutes.
Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Add the dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld together. If the sauce gets too thick, add a small amount of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and the beaten egg.
Stir in the fresh parsley (if using) and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

4. Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
Begin by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
Lay down your first layer of lasagna noodles (whether traditional or oven-ready). If you’re using traditional noodles, slightly overlap them, ensuring they cover the entire surface.
Add a generous layer of the cheese mixture on top of the noodles.
Follow with another layer of meat sauce, ensuring even coverage.
Repeat the layers: noodles, cheese mixture, and sauce, until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a final layer of meat sauce on top.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top for a bubbly, golden finish.

5. Bake the Lasagna

Cover the assembled lasagna with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden, and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
Once done, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Use a sharp knife to cut the lasagna into neat squares or rectangles.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your Barilla lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal!

By following these simple, yet thorough steps, you’ll create a delicious, hearty lasagna with layers of flavor, all thanks to the quality of Barilla lasagna noodles that provide a perfect foundation for your dish.

Variations on the Recipe

While the classic Barilla lasagna is always a crowd-pleaser, there are many ways to customize the dish to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to change up the flavors, make it vegetarian, or cater to specific diets, here are some creative variations on the classic lasagna recipe:

1. Vegetarian Lasagna

For a lighter, meat-free version of your lasagna, replace the ground meat with a variety of vegetables. Here’s how you can do it:

Vegetables to Use: Sauté a mix of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or eggplant. You can also add cooked lentils or beans for added texture and protein.
Cheese: Keep the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese layers the same, or try adding a little goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist.
Sauce: The tomato-based sauce can stay the same, or you can try a white sauce (béchamel) for a different flavor profile.

For a lighter pairing option, try our Chicken Salad Chick Recipe: Easy, Tasty Copycat at Home!. It’s a fresh and satisfying addition to a vegetarian menu.

2. Gluten-Free Lasagna

For a gluten-free version of this dish, you can easily substitute Barilla gluten-free lasagna noodles in place of the traditional noodles.

Sauce: Make sure your tomato sauce doesn’t contain any gluten, as some brands may add gluten-containing ingredients like modified food starch.
Cheese: Most cheeses are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels just to be sure.
Extra Tip: Since gluten-free noodles can sometimes be a bit more delicate, you may want to slightly undercook them before layering to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.

3. Lasagna with Sausage

If you want to add extra flavor and richness to your lasagna, swapping the ground beef for Italian sausage (mild or spicy) can elevate the dish.

Sausage: Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pan with the onions and garlic as you cook it. You can use sweet Italian sausage, spicy sausage, or even chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Add More Herbs: If you’re using spicy sausage, balance the heat with fresh herbs like basil or oregano to complement the flavors of the sauce.

4. Meat and Cheese Lasagna (Mixed Meat)

For a heartier version of your lasagna, combine different types of meat for a complex, savory flavor. Try a combination of:

Ground beef and ground pork: This gives a rich, flavorful meat sauce.
Ground turkey and ground beef: If you want a leaner option but still want the flavor of ground beef, turkey is a great choice.
Bacon: For a smoky kick, add some crispy crumbled bacon to the meat sauce. This works especially well if you’re also using sausage.

5. Lasagna Roll-Ups

If you prefer a fun twist on traditional lasagna, consider making lasagna roll-ups. These are individual servings of lasagna rolled up with cheese and sauce inside the noodles.

How to Make It: Cook the lasagna noodles as usual, spread the ricotta mixture onto each noodle, add some meat sauce, then roll them up tightly. Place the rolls seam-side down in the baking dish, cover with sauce and cheese, and bake as usual.
Serving Style: Lasagna roll-ups are perfect for a more elegant presentation and are also great for meal prep, as you can individually portion them.

6. White Lasagna (Lasagna Bianca)

For a creamy alternative, consider making a white lasagna or Lasagna Bianca, which uses a béchamel sauce instead of a tomato-based one.

Béchamel Sauce: This white sauce is made with butter, flour, and milk, and it’s seasoned with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. It adds a rich, velvety texture to the dish.
Cheese: You can still use ricotta and mozzarella, but this variation often features more Fontina, Gruyère, or Parmesan for a smooth and indulgent flavor.
Vegetable Option: For a lighter touch, add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes.

7. Lasagna with Pesto

For a burst of fresh, herby flavor, incorporate pesto into your lasagna.

Pesto Layer: Add a few spoonfuls of basil pesto (store-bought or homemade) into the cheese mixture or spread a layer directly on top of the meat sauce between layers of noodles.
Cheese: The rich, aromatic flavor of pesto pairs beautifully with mozzarella and Parmesan. Try mixing a bit of pesto into the ricotta layer for an added burst of flavor.
Optional Add-ins: Consider adding roasted tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes to enhance the depth of flavor.

8. Vegan Lasagna

For those following a vegan diet, you can easily make a plant-based version of lasagna by swapping in dairy-free ingredients:

Vegan Cheese: Replace the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan with vegan cheese alternatives. Many brands offer plant-based ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Meat Substitute: Use tofu, tempeh, or lentils as a meat alternative. You can crumble tofu to mimic ricotta cheese texture or use lentils for a heartier, protein-rich layer.
Tomato Sauce: Ensure your tomato sauce is free from dairy or other animal-based ingredients.

9. Lasagna with Spinach and Artichokes

For a Mediterranean-inspired twist, add spinach and artichoke hearts for a flavorful and creamy filling.

Spinach: Use fresh spinach or frozen spinach that has been drained of excess water. Mix it into the ricotta cheese for added depth of flavor.
Artichokes: Add marinated or canned artichoke hearts to the meat sauce or as a layer between the noodles and cheese mixture.

These variations on the Barilla lasagna recipe allow you to cater to different tastes, dietary preferences, and occasions. Whether you’re adding vegetables for a lighter meal, switching up the protein, or trying a new sauce, these ideas ensure your lasagna will always be fresh and exciting while maintaining the rich, comforting essence of the classic dish.

Tips for Perfect Lasagna

Making lasagna can seem like a big undertaking, but with a few simple tips, you can ensure that your Barilla lasagna turns out perfect every time. Whether you’re a first-time cook or a seasoned home chef, these tips will help you achieve a lasagna that is well-layered, flavorful, and baked to perfection.

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients

The foundation of a great lasagna starts with the ingredients:

Barilla Lasagna Noodles: Choose high-quality noodles, like Barilla, which are sturdy and hold up well during the baking process. If you’re using oven-ready noodles, there’s no need to boil them first, but be sure to add extra sauce to prevent them from drying out.
Fresh Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh ricotta, high-quality mozzarella, and freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-grated cheeses can have added preservatives that affect the texture and flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Use fresh basil, oregano, and parsley when possible, as fresh herbs can elevate the overall taste of your sauce and cheese mixture.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Layers

Lasagna is all about layering, and it’s essential to balance each layer of noodles, cheese, sauce, and meat (or vegetables).

Noodles: Avoid overlapping your noodles too much, as they will absorb the sauce and may become too thick or clumpy.
Cheese: When spreading cheese, don’t go overboard. A thin, even layer is enough. If you add too much cheese, the lasagna can become greasy or overly heavy.

3. Let the Sauce Simmer for Flavor

Simmer your meat sauce for a longer period of time to allow the flavors to develop.

Low and Slow: Simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes, and up to an hour if you have time. This allows the tomatoes to cook down and the herbs to meld together, giving your sauce a rich, deep flavor.
Add Water if Needed: If your sauce thickens too much, you can add a small amount of water, broth, or extra tomato sauce to reach your desired consistency.

4. Don’t Skip the Resting Time

Once your lasagna is out of the oven, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Why Resting is Important: This allows the lasagna to set and makes it easier to slice. If you cut it too soon, the layers may collapse, and the lasagna will be too soupy.
Serving Tip: Use a sharp knife or a serrated knife to cut through the layers cleanly without disrupting the structure.

5. Bake Covered and Uncovered

Cover During the First Bake: When you first put your lasagna in the oven, cover it with aluminum foil. This prevents the cheese from browning too quickly and allows the sauce to heat through. Bake covered for about 25 minutes.
Uncover for the Final Bake: After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake the lasagna for another 15-20 minutes to allow the top to become golden and bubbly.

6. Add a Little Extra Cheese on Top

A sprinkle of extra mozzarella on top of the lasagna just before it finishes baking will give you that gooey, cheesy top layer that everyone loves.

Extra Cheese Tip: You can even add some Parmesan cheese on top for a sharp, salty finish.

7. Use a Large Enough Baking Dish

Make sure your baking dish is large enough to accommodate all of the layers without crowding them.

Ideal Size: A 9×13-inch baking dish works well for most lasagna recipes, allowing for enough layers without the lasagna becoming too thick.
Even Layers: If your baking dish is too small, the lasagna layers may become uneven, and it could overflow while baking.

8. Experiment with Layering Techniques

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your lasagna layers. Here are some options:

Layer Sauce First: Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the pan before adding the noodles. This ensures that the noodles don’t stick to the bottom and helps keep them moist.
Layer in the Right Order: Alternate layers of noodles, sauce, meat or vegetables, and cheese. End with a final layer of sauce and cheese to keep everything together.

9. Spice Up the Meat Sauce

For a more flavorful meat sauce, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Extra Herbs: Experiment with additional herbs like thyme or bay leaves to enhance the sauce’s flavor profile.
Garlic and Onion: Make sure your garlic and onions are sautéed until they’re soft and fragrant before adding them to the sauce. This helps bring out their sweetness.

10. Make Ahead and Freeze

Lasagna actually improves in flavor after a day or two, and it freezes beautifully.

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the lasagna completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it for up to two days before baking.
Freezing Tip: If you want to freeze your lasagna for later, bake it first, let it cool, and then wrap it tightly for freezing. You can also freeze unbaked lasagna. Just add extra baking time when cooking from frozen.

11. Balance Meat and Sauce

The meat sauce should be generous but not overwhelming. You want enough sauce to keep the lasagna moist, but you don’t want it swimming in liquid.

Meat Sauce Consistency: The sauce should have some thickness, not too runny. If it’s too watery, it could make the lasagna soggy.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your Barilla lasagna turns out perfectly every time. From layering the noodles and cheese just right to letting it rest before slicing, each step plays a role in creating a rich, flavorful lasagna that will impress your guests or satisfy your family’s cravings.

Storing and Reheating Lasagna

Lasagna is one of those dishes that actually tastes better the next day, making it an ideal candidate for leftovers. Whether you have extra lasagna after a meal or you’ve made a batch in advance, knowing how to store and reheat it properly ensures that it maintains its flavor and texture. Here’s a guide on how to store and reheat your Barilla lasagna without compromising its quality.

Storing Lasagna

Proper storage is key to keeping your lasagna fresh and delicious for several days or even weeks. Here’s how to do it:

1. Let It Cool Before Storing

Why It’s Important: Allow your lasagna to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before storing it. Storing it while it’s still hot can lead to condensation, which can make the noodles soggy and cause the lasagna to become watery.
Tip: If you’re storing multiple pieces, you can use a spoon to scoop out individual servings, making it easier to reheat later.

2. Store in an Airtight Container

Short-Term Storage: If you plan to eat the lasagna within a few days, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure the lid is sealed tightly to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any odors from the fridge.
Long-Term Storage: For longer storage, it’s best to wrap the lasagna tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

3. Refrigeration Time

Refrigerator: Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Make sure the refrigerator is at the correct temperature, around 40°F (4°C), to keep the lasagna fresh.
Freezer: If you want to store lasagna for a longer period, freezing is the way to go. Lasagna can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing too much quality.

Reheating Lasagna

Reheating lasagna is a delicate process to ensure that it is heated through without becoming dry or overcooked. Here are the best methods to reheat your lasagna:

1. in the Oven (Best Method)

Reheating in the oven is the best way to ensure that your lasagna stays moist and delicious, especially when reheating a large portion.

Steps:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. If the lasagna was stored in the fridge, remove the cover and wrap it in aluminum foil to prevent the top from getting too crispy while the center heats up.
3. Place the lasagna in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes if reheating individual portions or 45 minutes to 1 hour for a whole dish. If you’re reheating from frozen, it might take a little longer (about 1 hour).
4. To check if it’s fully heated, insert a fork or knife into the center—if it’s hot to the touch, it’s ready. You can remove the foil in the last 10 minutes of baking to get the top nice and golden.
Tip: To add a bit of extra moisture, you can sprinkle a small amount of water or sauce over the lasagna before covering it with foil. This will help keep it moist as it reheats.

2. in the Microwave (Quick Method)

While not ideal for the best texture, the microwave is the fastest way to reheat a single serving of lasagna.

Steps:
1. Place a single serving of lasagna on a microwave-safe plate.
2. Cover the lasagna with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
3. Microwave on high for about 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. If it’s not fully heated, continue to microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.
Tip: For the best results, cut the lasagna into smaller pieces before microwaving to ensure it heats evenly.

3. in a Skillet (Alternative Method)

If you don’t want to use the microwave or oven, reheating in a skillet is a great option for individual servings. This method helps retain the crispy edges while ensuring the inside is heated through.

Steps:
1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter.
2. Place the lasagna in the skillet and cover with a lid.
3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping the lasagna once to ensure even heating. You can add a splash of water or broth to the pan before covering to create steam, which helps heat it through without drying out.
4. When the lasagna is hot and bubbly, remove it from the skillet.
Tip: This method is perfect for reheating lasagna that has already been sliced into individual portions.

4. Frozen Lasagna

If you’ve stored lasagna in the freezer, here’s how to properly reheat it from frozen:

Oven Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the frozen lasagna from the freezer and unwrap it from any plastic or foil (if it’s in a freezer-safe container, you can leave it in the container).
3. Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 60-90 minutes, or until fully heated through. If you have a thicker lasagna, it may require the full 90 minutes.
4. Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes to allow the top to crisp up and the cheese to melt.
Microwave Method:
1. If you prefer the microwave, place the frozen lasagna on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap it in microwave-safe plastic wrap.
2. Microwave on high for about 5-7 minutes per slice, depending on your microwave’s wattage.
3. For a whole lasagna, you’ll need to microwave it in stages, allowing it to rest between each interval.
Tip: When reheating from frozen, it’s best to check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. The lasagna should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Barilla lasagna at its best, even after storing it for a few days or weeks. Whether you’re reheating a slice for a quick meal or warming up an entire dish for family dinner, your lasagna will be just as delicious as when it was first made!

FAQs

Do you need to boil Barilla lasagna?

No, you do not need to boil Barilla oven-ready lasagna noodles before using them. These noodles are specifically designed to be used directly in the lasagna without pre-cooking. Simply layer them in the dish with your sauce and cheese mixture, and they will cook as the lasagna bakes in the oven. This saves time and effort in the preparation process.

What are the correct layers for lasagna?

Lasagna is typically built in layers, with the following general order:

First Layer: Spread a thin layer of marinara or meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent the noodles from sticking.
Second Layer: Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.
Third Layer: Add a layer of ricotta or cottage cheese mixed with egg and seasoning, followed by a generous sprinkling of mozzarella cheese.
Fourth Layer: Repeat the process, layering sauce, noodles, cheese mixture, and mozzarella, until the dish is full.
Final Layer: Top with a layer of sauce and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil and bake.
After baking, you can uncover the lasagna for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and become bubbly.

Should I bake lasagna covered or uncovered?

It’s recommended to bake lasagna covered with foil for the first part of the baking process to prevent the cheese from burning and to help the noodles cook evenly. After about 45 minutes of baking, remove the foil to allow the cheese on top to become golden and bubbly. Baking uncovered at the end also helps achieve a crispy, slightly browned top layer.

Do oven-ready lasagna noodles really work?

Yes, oven-ready lasagna noodles work very well, and they are a time-saving option. These noodles are specially designed to soften and cook during the baking process without boiling first. When using oven-ready noodles, be sure to add extra sauce or liquid in your lasagna to ensure the noodles absorb enough moisture to cook properly. If you prefer a firmer noodle, you can reduce the amount of sauce slightly or bake for a bit longer with the foil removed.

Conclusion: Why This Lasagna Recipe is a Go-To for Home Cooks

This Barilla lasagna recipe is the perfect choice for home cooks seeking a hearty, comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With its use of oven-ready lasagna noodles, there’s no need for extra steps like boiling the noodles, saving time without sacrificing taste or texture. The combination of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked noodles ensures a satisfying and delicious dish every time.

Not only is this recipe simple and straightforward, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer a classic meat lasagna, a vegetarian option, or even a gluten-free version, this recipe can be easily adapted to meet your dietary preferences. The layers of sauce and cheese provide endless opportunities to customize with your favorite ingredients.

For busy weeknights or special gatherings, this lasagna recipe offers a reliable and crowd-pleasing solution that can be prepped in advance, stored for later, and reheated easily. It’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table, from kids to adults, and is always a hit for its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

With the simple steps and minimal prep required, this Barilla lasagna recipe is an essential go-to for home cooks looking to make a comforting, homemade meal without the hassle. Whether it’s your first time making lasagna or you’re a seasoned cook, this recipe promises great results every time, making it a must-have in your cooking repertoire.

For ingredients and helpful resources, explore Amazon.