I’ve found few dishes bring such a sense of warmth to the kitchen as a classic lasagna. The aroma of rich tomato sauce simmering, the bubbling cheeses, and the fresh, vibrant scent of basil make this traditional lasagna recipe easy Sunset Marinara And Basil Ribbons a truly unforgettable experience. This hearty, family-friendly meal is designed for busy home cooks craving comfort without complexity, delivering an easy dinner idea that’s both satisfying and impressive. Even on those hectic Tuesday nights after school and activities, I’ve managed to get this into the oven with minimal fuss.
What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Their Roles)
Core Ingredients for Our Traditional Lasagna Recipe:
Gather these essentials for a truly comforting dish:
- Lasagna Noodles: 9-12 oven-ready sheets (approx. 250g) for sturdy, tender layers.
- Ground Beef or Ground Turkey: 450g (1 lb) for a hearty, savory base.
- Ricotta Cheese: 450g (15 oz) for creamy, tangy filling (or use cottage cheese if that’s what’s in the fridge).
- Mozzarella & Parmesan Cheese: 3 cups shredded mozzarella (300g) and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (50g) — your melty, savory duo.
- Sunset Marinara Sauce: 2 x 680g (24 oz) jars, the rich heart of our traditional lasagna recipe easy Sunset Marinara And Basil Ribbons.
- Fresh Basil Ribbons: 1/2 cup lightly packed, for vibrant aroma and flavor.
- Onion & Garlic: 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and 4 minced cloves — essential aromatics.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) for sautéing and richness.
- Salt, Black Pepper, and 1 large Egg (optional): Essential seasoning and ricotta binder.
Smart Swaps & Budget Buys:
Flexibility is key for an easy dinner idea.
- Meat alternatives: Ground turkey, lentils, or mushrooms for a lighter touch.
- Cheese: Cottage cheese for ricotta, or a mix of Italian blends instead of specific types.
- Sauce: Any high-quality store-bought marinara works, or homemade from canned tomatoes.
Healthier Choices:
Enjoy a healthier family meal without compromising flavor:
- Leaner Protein: Opt for lean ground meat or turkey.
- Noodles & Veggies: Use whole wheat noodles or add extra spinach and zucchini for fiber.
- Reduced-Fat Dairy: Choose reduced-fat cheese or dairy-free alternatives for a lighter traditional lasagna recipe.
Storing Ingredients:
Keep your ingredients fresh and ready for meal prep:
- Fresh herbs: Keep basil in a slightly damp paper towel, stored in the fridge for up to a week.
- Cheese: Grate extra cheese and freeze it in an airtight bag for up to 3 months.
Cooking Method, Simplified
Step-by-Step for Your Easy Lasagna:
- Brown the meat (5-7 minutes): Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground meat, onion, and garlic. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned and the onion is translucent. It should smell wonderfully aromatic. Drain any excess fat.
- Simmer the Sunset Marinara (15-20 minutes): Pour in the Sunset Marinara Sauce, stir well. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook until slightly thickened, watching for bubbles to break on the surface. This deepens the flavor of your traditional lasagna recipe.
- Prepare cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan, egg (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Layering perfection (10-15 minutes): Spread a thin layer of Sunset Marinara (about 1/2 cup) in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange a single layer of lasagna noodles. Spread half the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat layers: sauce, noodles, remaining ricotta, mozzarella. Finish with a final layer of noodles, generously topped with sauce and the remaining mozzarella for this traditional lasagna recipe. If your sauce seems too thick, splash in 1/4 cup of water or broth to ensure noodles hydrate properly.
- Bake (45-55 minutes): Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Uncover for the last 15-25 minutes, allowing the cheese to become golden and bubbly on top.
- Rest (10-15 minutes): This step is crucial! Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest on a wire rack. I always let mine rest for at least 15 minutes; it ensures the layers set properly for clean slices. Garnish generously with fresh Basil Ribbons just before serving. The kitchen will smell incredible, but patience is a virtue here!
Busy Cook Shortcuts:
Making a family-friendly meal simpler is always a win.
- Noodle Savvy: Use oven-ready noodles — no pre-boiling saves significant time and effort.
- Pre-Prepped Veggies: Buy pre-chopped onions and garlic to speed up your sautéing step.
- Quality Sauce: A high-quality jarred Sunset Marinara is a fantastic shortcut for this easy traditional lasagna recipe.
Avoid These Common Lasagna Mistakes:
Steer clear of these pitfalls for a perfect traditional lasagna recipe:
- Noodle Overcooking: If pre-boiling, don’t overcook them; they’ll cook more in the oven.
- Dry Lasagna: Ensure enough sauce between layers so the lasagna isn’t dry and the noodles hydrate properly.
- Runny Layers: Always let it rest after baking (10-15 minutes minimum!) to prevent a runny, messy slice.
Perfect Moments to Serve Our Easy Traditional Lasagna Recipe
For Every Occasion:
This traditional lasagna recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for various family-friendly occasions.
- Hearty Family Dinners: A comforting classic everyone adores.
- Casual Gatherings: Easily feeds a large group without fuss.
- Holiday Tables: An impressive, yet comforting centerpiece.
- Weeknight Winners: Great for busy schedules with a little advance prep for convenience.
Occasion-Specific Tweaks:
Adjust this easy traditional lasagna recipe to fit any scenario, from picky eaters to festive celebrations.
- Kid-friendly: Use less strong spices in the sauce and add extra mozzarella for melty goodness.
- Festive table: Garnish with additional fresh basil and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for visual appeal.
- Meal Prep: For busy weeknights, I often bake a large pan of this traditional lasagna recipe on Sunday and portion it for lunches; it’s a huge time-saver.
What to Serve Alongside:
Complement your delicious lasagna with simple, fresh accompaniments.
- Sides: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, warm garlic bread, or steamed green beans.
- Drinks: Lemon-infused sparkling water or a pitcher of unsweetened iced tea.
Nutrition and Wellness Benefits of This Lasagna
Wholesome & Balanced:
This traditional lasagna recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s a well-rounded meal supporting healthy eating.
- Protein-Packed: Ground meat and cheese provide essential protein for satiety.
- Fiber-Rich: Tomatoes in the Sunset Marinara and optional whole wheat noodles offer beneficial fiber.
- Vitamin Boost: Tomatoes are naturally rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Healthy Family Meals: A complete, satisfying dish in one pan.
Fits Modern Diets:
Easily adapt this classic for various dietary needs, making it a versatile meal prep recipe.
- Lower-Carb Options: Use thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant instead of noodles for a delicious, low-calorie version of this traditional lasagna recipe.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for high-quality gluten-free lasagna noodles.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute with plant-based cheeses and ricotta alternatives.
- Meal Prep Recipes for Weight Loss: Portion control your baked traditional lasagna recipe for managed calorie intake and protein-packed snacks.
Everyday Practical Benefits
Streamlining Your Kitchen Life:
Enjoy the ultimate convenience and affordability this easy traditional lasagna recipe offers for quick meals.
- Time Savings: Oven-ready noodles and the delicious Sunset Marinara make assembly quick.
- Affordability: Uses common, budget-friendly ingredients found in most grocery stores.
- Convenience: A complete, hearty family meal prepared in a single baking dish.
Modern Lifestyle Friendly:
This traditional lasagna recipe excels in flexibility, making it perfect for today’s busy households.
- Make-Ahead Marvel: Assemble your traditional lasagna recipe hours or even a day ahead, then bake when ready.
- Excellent Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, ideal for convenient lunches.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze unbaked or baked portions for future quick meals.
Expert Tips and Flavor Upgrades
Elevate Your Easy Lasagna:
Small details make a big difference in the flavor and presentation of your lasagna.
- Browning the cheese: A final broiler blast for 2-3 minutes gives a golden, bubbly top.
- Seasoning Layers: Don’t forget a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian herbs in each layer for depth.
- Fresh Basil Ribbons: Add them after baking for maximum freshness, color, and aromatic impact.
Spice & Herb Variations:
Tailor the flavors of your easy Sunset Marinara and Basil Ribbons lasagna to your liking.
- Spicy Kick: Stir a pinch of red pepper flakes into the Sunset Marinara for a gentle heat.
- Herb Garden: Incorporate fresh oregano, thyme, or marjoram with the basil.
- Garlic Lovers: Roast whole garlic cloves, mash them, and mix into the ricotta for intense flavor.
Dietary & Allergy Adjustments:
Easily modify this recipe for specific dietary needs, keeping it inclusive for everyone.
- Nut-Free: All ingredients are typically nut-free, but always double-check product labels.
- Vegetarian: Omit meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and diced bell peppers for a robust filling.
Common Questions Answered
Is this traditional lasagna recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, you can easily adapt this traditional lasagna recipe by substituting noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a delicious low-carb version without sacrificing flavor. Ensure vegetables are patted dry to prevent excess moisture.
What’s the best way to store this easy traditional lasagna recipe for meal prep?
Once cooled, slice your traditional lasagna recipe into individual portions. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat baked portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes or microwave individual slices for 2-3 minutes until hot.
Can I make the Sunset Marinara ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Sunset Marinara sauce can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge. This makes assembling your easy traditional lasagna recipe even quicker when you’re ready to bake.
Why are fresh Basil Ribbons important for this traditional lasagna recipe?
Fresh Basil Ribbons add a bright, aromatic contrast to the rich Sunset Marinara and cheesy layers, elevating the flavor profile and adding beautiful visual appeal to your traditional lasagna recipe. They awaken the palate.
What kind of ground meat works best for this hearty family meal?
A mix of lean ground beef and sweet Italian sausage is classic for this traditional lasagna recipe, offering deep, savory flavor. Lean ground beef or turkey also works wonderfully for a lighter, healthy family meal.
Where can I find high-quality Sunset Marinara ingredients online?
You can often find specialty tomato products, fresh basil, and quality cheeses from online gourmet grocery stores or local farmers’ markets. Look for authentic Italian brands for the best Sunset Marinara flavor profile.
How do I prevent my easy traditional lasagna recipe from being too watery?
Ensure your ricotta mixture isn’t too wet by draining any excess liquid from the ricotta cheese before mixing. Also, let the traditional lasagna recipe rest for 10-15 minutes after baking before slicing; I find this crucial for allowing the layers to set properly.
Conclusion
This easy traditional lasagna recipe with Sunset Marinara and Basil Ribbons promises a fuss-free, incredibly delicious meal that brings warmth and joy to your table, fitting perfectly into healthy eating and quick meals. Don’t wait – bookmark this recipe, gather your ingredients, and save this delightful traditional lasagna recipe on Pinterest for your next family dinner!
traditional lasagna recipe easy Sunset Marinara And Basil Ribbons
- Total Time: 110 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This recipe for traditional lasagna with Sunset Marinara and Basil Ribbons offers a hearty, family-friendly meal, designed for busy home cooks seeking comfort without complexity. It’s an easy dinner idea that’s both satisfying and impressive, even for hectic weeknights.
Ingredients
- 9–12 oven-ready lasagna sheets (approx. 250g)
- 450g (1 lb) ground beef or ground turkey
- 450g (15 oz) ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (300g)
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
- 2 x 680g (24 oz) jars Sunset Marinara Sauce
- 0.5 cup lightly packed fresh basil ribbons
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg (optional)
Instructions
- Brown Meat and Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground meat, onion, and garlic. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
- Simmer Marinara Sauce: Pour in the Sunset Marinara Sauce, stir well. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook until slightly thickened, watching for bubbles to break on the surface.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan, egg (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Layer Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of Sunset Marinara (about 0.5 cup) in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange a single layer of lasagna noodles. Spread half the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat layers: sauce, noodles, remaining ricotta, mozzarella. Finish with a final layer of noodles, generously topped with sauce and the remaining mozzarella. (If your sauce seems too thick, splash in 0.25 cup of water or broth to ensure noodles hydrate properly.)
- Bake Lasagna: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Uncover for the last 15-25 minutes, allowing the cheese to become golden and bubbly on top.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. Garnish generously with fresh Basil Ribbons just before serving.
Notes
Use oven-ready noodles to save pre-boiling time. Consider pre-chopped onions and garlic or a high-quality jarred marinara for shortcuts. Ensure enough sauce between layers to prevent dry lasagna and hydrate noodles. Always let lasagna rest for at least 10-15 minutes after baking to prevent runny layers. Store fresh basil in a damp paper towel in the fridge. Grate and freeze extra cheese for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 200 g)
- Calories: 520 calories
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Keywords: traditional lasagna, easy dinner, Sunset Marinara, Basil Ribbons, family meal, comfort food, weeknight, hearty, Italian-American, baked