Maggiano’s Style Lasagna

The aroma of bubbling cheese and rich sauce fills the kitchen as you pull a steaming tray of Maggiano’s Style Lasagna from the oven, the layers perfectly melded together. This classic Italian dish takes about two and a half hours to make, but every minute is worth it for that satisfying, hearty flavor. The secret to its success lies in the robust sauce, crafted with both beef and sausage for an unforgettable depth of taste.

This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners when you want to impress without the fuss. It can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy it at your convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of savory meat and tangy tomato sauce creates a balanced flavor profile.
• Layering the cheese filling and noodles ensures every bite is creamy and satisfying.
• Slow-cooking the sauce allows the ingredients to meld into a deep, rich flavor.
• It’s perfect for leftovers, as the flavors only improve after a day in the fridge.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious lasagna:

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Cheese Filling

• 16 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For Assembling

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 16 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Use low-fat cheese for a lighter version.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey for beef
• Cottage cheese for ricotta
• Fresh herbs instead of dried
• No-boil lasagna noodles for traditional

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your lasagna masterpiece:

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic until well browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Add the sugar, basil, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Cover and let simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally to develop the flavors.

Prepare the Cheese Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well and set aside.

Cook the Lasagna Noodles

In a large pot, cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Assemble the Lasagna

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Place four lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Repeat the layers, finishing with meat sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

How to Store It

Fridge: store for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: yes, well-wrapped for up to 3 months.
Reheat: microwave or oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Allow the lasagna to rest for 15 minutes before serving to help it set.
• Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese for a rich, gooey texture.
• Experiment with additional vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with garlic bread for a hearty side.
• Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a true Italian experience.