Before we start assembling, make sure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your lasagna bakes evenly and reaches that perfect golden-brown top.

In a spacious pan, warm some olive oil over medium heat. Add your ground beef (or a combination of beef and sausage) and cook until browned. After the meat has cooked through, drain off any surplus fat. Then, add tomato sauce or marinara sauce, along with a pinch of basil, oregano, and garlic. Simmer for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together, stirring occasionally. Taste and modify the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.

While the sauce simmers, it’s time to prepare the ricotta filling. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until smooth, and set the mixture aside. The egg helps to bind the ricotta and keep everything together as it bakes.

If you’re using San Giorgio no-boil lasagna noodles, you can skip this step! Just open the package and set them aside. For regular noodles, boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the noodles according to the package directions (usually around 8-10 minutes), then drain and lay them flat on a parchment-lined surface to prevent sticking.

Now comes the fun part—layering your lasagna! In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Next, place your first layer of San Giorgio noodles. On top of the noodles, spread half of the ricotta mixture, followed by a generous layer of meat sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the process for another layer, ending with a final layer of noodles and a topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Cover the dish with foil and place it in the oven to bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly and golden. If you like a crispier top, you can broil the lasagna for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be sure to keep an eye on it!

Once the lasagna is out of the oven, let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the lasagna to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Cut your lasagna into squares and serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. Watch as your family or guests dig in, enjoying every cheesy, flavorful bite.

Don’t rush the sauce: Allow the tomato sauce to simmer long enough so the flavors develop. This extra time makes a noticeable difference in the final dish.

Use plenty of cheese: Don't skimp on the cheese—each layer should be generously covered with mozzarella and Parmesan for that perfect, cheesy melt.

Let it rest: While it’s tempting to dive right in, letting your lasagna sit for a few minutes after baking helps everything set and makes it easier to serve.