Cascading layers of pasta and savory meat sauce may just remind you of your most cherished family gatherings. Martha Stewart’s Traditional Lasagna with Homemade Meat Sauce captures that essence of warm nostalgia, transforming simple ingredients into a comforting feast. This crowd-pleaser not only delights the taste buds but also requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners. The customizable nature of this classic Italian dish means you can cater to every palate, whether you want to stick to the traditional recipe or play around with vegetarian options. Ready to dive into the ultimate lasagna experience that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds?

Why Is Martha Stewart’s Lasagna a Must-Try?

Comforting Layers: The cozy combination of pasta, homemade meat sauce, and creamy cheeses is a comfort food classic that satisfies every craving.

Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer a meaty feast or a veggie-packed masterpiece, this recipe offers endless variations.

Minimal Prep Time: Busy weeknight? No worries! This lasagna is quick to assemble, letting you serve deliciousness without the hassle.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or potlucks, everybody loves a hearty slice of lasagna. Pair it with Alfredo Lasagna Soup for an even more delightful meal experience!

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it the day before and let the flavors meld overnight—just bake and serve when you’re ready.

Every bite of Martha Stewart’s Traditional Lasagna promises to bring warmth and joy to your dining table!

Martha Stewart’s Lasagna Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce
• Ground Beef – Main protein source; can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Italian Sausage – Adds flavor and richness; plant-based sausage works for a vegetarian version.
• Onion – Provides base flavor and sweetness when sautéed; shallots can replace for a milder taste.
• Carrots – Enhances depth of flavor; can be omitted if not available.
• Celery – Adds aromatic quality; optional for flavor enhancement.
• Garlic – Essential for adding depth; fresh is preferred, but powdered can be used in a pinch.
• Dried Oregano – Classic Italian seasoning; substitute with Italian seasoning if needed.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces heat; can omit for a milder flavor.
• Tomato Paste – Thickens sauce; can swap with tomato sauce for simplicity.
• Purée Tomatoes – Forms the sauce base; essential for moisture and flavor.

For the Cheese Filling
• Ricotta Cheese – Provides creaminess; cottage cheese is a lighter substitute.
• Egg – Binds the cheese together; can use cornstarch mixed with water for an egg-free alternative.
• Parmesan Cheese – Enhances flavor; nutritional yeast is a dairy-free substitute.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Offers gooey texture; vegan cheese options are available.
• Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness; can use dried parsley in lesser amounts.

For the Assembly
• Lasagna Noodles – Uncooked noodles simplify prep time, making this dish even more convenient.

Dive into the delightful world of Martha Stewart’s Lasagna, where each ingredient plays a loving role in creating a classic that warms the heart and fills the stomach!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Martha Stewart’s Traditional Lasagna with Homemade Meat Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat and add chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the ground beef and Italian sausage, cooking until browned (around 7-10 minutes). Add minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes, infusing for 1 minute. Mix in the tomato paste and puréed tomatoes, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 2: Mix Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, a splash of milk, beaten eggs, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, and freshly chopped parsley. Stir everything together until creamy and well integrated, ensuring no lumps remain. This cheese filling will create a rich and flavorful layer in your lasagna, mainstay of Martha Stewart’s Traditional Lasagna, promising a delightful contrast to the meat sauce.

Step 3: Assemble Lasagna
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and start by spreading a thin layer of your homemade meat sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of dry lasagna noodles over the sauce, covering it completely. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by more meat sauce. Continue layering—noodles, remaining ricotta, and then topping with sauce—until you have three full layers, finishing with a layer of meat sauce at the top.

Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the assembled lasagna. This will create a beautifully cheesy and golden crust when baked. Cover the dish tightly with foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese, as it will help retain steam while baking and prevent sticking.

Step 5: Bake Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the oven reaches temperature, place the lasagna in and bake for 45 minutes covered with foil. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, watching for a golden-brown and bubbling top that signals perfect doneness.

Step 6: Let it Rest
After removing the lasagna from the oven, allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period is essential as it helps the layers set and makes slicing easier. You’ll be rewarded with neatly cut servings of Martha Stewart’s Traditional Lasagna, ready to enjoy at your family dinner table.

Variations & Substitutions for Martha Stewart’s Lasagna

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize Martha Stewart’s Lasagna to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace the meat with sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for a fresh and hearty twist. This version still captures that comforting essence, minus the meat.
Cheesy Swap: Mix in creamy goat cheese or combine mozzarella with fontina for a unique blend of flavors that will dazzle your taste buds. Imagine each bite bursting with cheesy goodness!
Spicy Kick: Want to heat things up? Add a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce or blend cayenne pepper right into the cheese mix for a fiery flair. This option takes comfort food to a whole new level!
Herb Infusion: Make this lasagna sing by mixing fresh basil or thyme into the cheese filling. Adding vibrant herbs can elevate the dish and give it an aromatic touch just like the Italian countryside.
Whole Wheat Noodles: For a nutritious bonus, choose whole wheat lasagna noodles instead. They bring a nuttier flavor along with added fiber and nutrients, making this dish even heartier.
Pesto Boost: Layer some fresh pesto in between the noodles for an extra burst of flavor. This twist will add a delightful herbal richness that elevates the taste of your lasagna immensely.
Gluten-Free Option: No gluten? No problem! Substitute with gluten-free lasagna noodles, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting classic without worry.

For additional recipes to try, check out the delectable Alfredo Lasagna Soup or explore another version of lasagna that excites your palate, like this Decadent Alfredo Lasagna. Let’s get cooking and spread the love!

Make Ahead Options

Martha Stewart’s Traditional Lasagna is a fantastic dish to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights! You can assemble the entire lasagna and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months; just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. To maintain quality, ensure the noodles are well-covered with sauce to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting meal, simply preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake from frozen for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have delicious homemade lasagna ready to delight your family with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Martha Stewart’s Lasagna

Noodle Coverage: Ensure all noodles are well-covered with meat sauce to avoid crunchy tops during baking. This helps achieve that perfect texture.
Resting Time: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This important step makes it easier to slice and enjoy those delicious layers.
Flavor Boost: For deeper flavors, prepare the meat sauce a day in advance. Letting it refrigerate overnight allows the ingredients to meld beautifully.
Browning Balance: Keep an eye on the top while baking. If it browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil towards the end to prevent burning.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match cheeses in your ricotta layer. Incorporating different cheeses in Martha Stewart’s Lasagna can enhance the flavor profile substantially.

What to Serve with Martha Stewart’s Lasagna

Complete your dining experience with flavorful sides and delectable desserts that pair beautifully with the rich layers of lasagna.

Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky warmth of freshly baked garlic bread perfectly complements the savory sauce and creamy cheese.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a tangy Caesar dressing provide a refreshing balance to the rich lasagna.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to caramelized perfection adds a delightful textural contrast to your meal.
Tiramisu: End on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert; its coffee layers and mascarpone cream harmonize with the savory main dish.
Red Wine: A glass of robust Italian red wine, like Chianti, enhances the flavors of the meat sauce while adding a touch of elegance.
Antipasto Platter: Begin your meal with an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables, setting the stage for a feast.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights filled with cheese and herbs are a perfect appetizer to welcome your guests.
Pesto Pasta: A light, basil-infused pesto pasta dish offers a fresh twist and adds color to your table alongside the lasagna.
Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing and vibrant starter that complements every bite of the rich lasagna.

Storage Tips for Martha Stewart’s Lasagna

Fridge: Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the lasagna for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare Martha Stewart’s Lasagna a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it the next day.

Martha Stewart’s Lasagna Recipe FAQs

What does it mean to use uncooked lasagna noodles?
Using uncooked lasagna noodles simplifies the prep time significantly. These noodles cook directly while baking in the meat sauce, absorbing flavors and moisture. Just ensure that all noodles are well-submerged in the sauce to achieve that perfectly soft texture after baking.

How should I store leftover Martha Stewart’s lasagna?
After enjoying your delicious lasagna, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months; wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.

Can I prepare Martha Stewart’s lasagna in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time since you’ll be starting with a cold dish.

What if my lasagna noodles stick together in the baking dish?
To prevent sticking, make sure that the sauce is adequately layered between the noodles. Adding extra sauce on top before baking can help. If you still encounter sticking, gently slice through the layers with a sharp knife when serving—the flavors are so delicious, everyone will want a bite!

Can I make vegetarian variations for Martha Stewart’s lasagna?
Yes, you can easily customize this recipe! Swap the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty vegetarian option. Plant-based sausage also makes a flavorful alternative if you’re looking for extra depth without meat.

Is it okay to freeze slices of Martha Stewart’s lasagna?
Absolutely! Slice the cooled lasagna before freezing. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, ensuring they are airtight. This way, you can enjoy a taste of homemade comfort any time! Simply reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready.