Barilla Lasagna Recipe: The Classic Way to Perfect Lasagna

Savor every bite of this classic Barilla lasagna recipe, featuring layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese for the ultimate comfort food.

Introduction

Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish that has found its way into households worldwide. This Barilla lasagna recipe combines tender Barilla noodles, a flavorful meat sauce, and creamy cheese for a deliciously comforting meal. Whether you’re hosting family dinners or entertaining friends, this lasagna will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Additionally,
, we will take you step-by-step through the process of creating the perfect Barilla lasagna. We will also cover useful tips, variations, nutritional information, common mistakes to avoid, troubleshooting, and address some frequently asked questions to help you achieve lasagna mastery.

The History of Lasagna

Lasagna is one of the oldest types of pasta, with a history that dates back to Ancient Greece and Rome. The term “lasagna” originally referred to the dish itself, rather than the pasta, and was derived from the Greek word “laganon,” which referred to flat sheets of dough. The modern lasagna as we know it today—layers of pasta, sauce, meat, and cheese—developed in Italy, specifically in the region of Emilia-Romagna, which is famous for its rich and hearty cuisine.

Traditional lasagna recipes have evolved over time, influenced by regional ingredients and preferences. In Northern Italy, lasagna is typically made with a ragù (meat sauce) and béchamel (white sauce), while in the Southern regions, ricotta and mozzarella are more common. Today, lasagna is enjoyed worldwide, with countless variations suited to different palates and dietary needs. This classic Barilla version blends traditional elements with the convenience of oven-ready noodles, making it accessible and easy for home cooks.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Barilla Lasagna Recipe

To make this Barilla lasagna recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• Barilla® Oven-Ready Lasagne: 1 box
• Marinara Sauce: 2 jars (approx. 48 oz)
• Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: 1 pound, cooked and drained
• Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces
• Mozzarella Cheese: 4 cups, shredded
• Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese: ½ cup, grated
• Eggs: 2, lightly beaten
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Salt and Black Pepper: to taste

Note: For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Barilla Lasagna

Follow these steps to prepare a classic and delicious Barilla lasagna:

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce

• In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Pour in 1½ jars of marinara sauce and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

3. Mix the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine:

• Ricotta cheese
• 3½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• Lightly beaten eggs

Mix until thoroughly incorporated.

4. Assemble the Lasagna

• Lightly grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• Spread ¾ cup of the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the baking dish.
• Place 3-4 sheets of Barilla® Oven-Ready Lasagne over the sauce, slightly overlapping to cover the surface.
• Evenly spread half of the cheese mixture over the lasagne sheets.
• Top with half of the meat sauce, spreading it evenly.
• Repeat the layers: add another set of lasagne sheets, followed by the remaining cheese mixture and meat sauce.
• For the final layer, place the last set of lasagne sheets on top and cover with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.

5. Bake the Lasagna

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese to prevent sticking.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
• After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

6. Rest and Serve

Once done, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Tips for Perfect Barilla Lasagna Recipe

Use Enough Sauce: Lasagna noodles don’t require boiling, but they need plenty of moisture to cook properly. Be generous with the sauce to ensure tender noodles.

Shred Your Own Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, shred your own mozzarella cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that affect melting.

Resting Time: Allowing the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing ensures clean, even servings.

Storage: Leftover lasagna can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions for Barilla Lasagna

Lasagna is a versatile dish that allows for a variety of ingredient substitutions and additions to suit dietary preferences or simply change up the flavor profile. Here are some ideas:

1. Cheese Alternatives

If you’re looking for alternatives to ricotta cheese, consider using:

• Cottage Cheese: Similar in texture, but lighter in calories. Blend it for a smoother consistency. Learn more about the nutritional benefits of Cottage Cheese.
• Greek Yogurt: Provides a tangy flavor and is a healthier substitute for ricotta. Learn more about the benefits of Greek yogurt.
• Béchamel Sauce: A creamy white sauce commonly used in traditional Italian lasagna, offering a richer, velvety texture.

2. Meat Substitutes

To create a vegetarian version or add different protein sources, try these substitutes:

• Lentils: Cooked lentils provide a similar texture to ground meat and are high in protein and fiber.
• Plant-Based Ground Meat: There are various plant-based ground meat options available that taste and cook like real meat.
• Sautéed Mushrooms: Mushrooms provide a meaty texture and earthy flavor that works well in place of ground meat.

3. Extra Vegetables

Add more nutrients to your lasagna by incorporating additional vegetables such as:

• Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach adds a healthy boost to the cheese mixture.
• Zucchini or Eggplant: Thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant can be added in layers for extra texture.
• Carrots and Celery: Finely chopped carrots and celery can be sautéed with the meat to add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting for Barilla Lasagna Recipe

Making lasagna can sometimes come with challenges. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix or avoid them:

1. Watery Lasagna

Problem: The lasagna turns out watery and doesn’t hold its shape.

Solution:

• Drain Ingredients Well: Make sure to drain excess fat from cooked meat and excess moisture from vegetables.
• Use Sufficient Sauce: Oven-ready noodles need plenty of moisture to cook properly, but avoid making the sauce too watery.
• Let It Rest: Always let the lasagna rest after baking. This helps the ingredients set and reduces excess liquid.

2. Burnt Cheese Top

Problem: The cheese on top burns before the lasagna is fully baked.

Solution:

• Cover with Foil: Always cover the lasagna with foil for most of the baking time. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown.
• Adjust Rack Position: Place the baking dish in the middle or lower part of the oven to prevent the top from browning too quickly.

3. Hard or Chewy Noodles

Problem: The noodles are hard or chewy even after baking.

Solution:

• Use Enough Sauce: Ensure there is enough sauce in every layer to allow the oven-ready noodles to absorb moisture and cook evenly.
• Bake Long Enough: Make sure to bake the lasagna long enough—oven-ready noodles need sufficient time to soften.

Lasagna Cooking Techniques for Perfect Barilla Lasagna

1. How to Avoid Watery Lasagna

Watery lasagna can be a common issue, but there are ways to prevent it:

• Drain the Meat Properly: After cooking the ground beef or sausage, ensure you drain off excess fat. Excess liquid can lead to watery lasagna.
• Use Thick Sauce: Make sure your marinara sauce isn’t too runny. A thicker sauce will help maintain the structure of the lasagna.
• Let It Rest: Letting the lasagna rest after baking allows the ingredients to set, which helps prevent excess liquid when slicing.
• Avoid Overloading with Vegetables: If using vegetables, make sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture before layering them in the lasagna.

2. Achieving Perfectly Even Layers

To achieve even layers in your lasagna:

• Spread Ingredients Evenly: Take your time to spread the cheese mixture, sauce, and meat evenly across each layer.
• Use a Ladle: A ladle or large spoon can help you distribute the sauce consistently.
• Patience Is Key: Be patient when layering. Properly layered lasagna not only looks impressive but also ensures every bite is balanced.

3. How to Make Lasagna Ahead of Time

Lasagna is an excellent make-ahead dish, and here’s how to do it:

• Assemble and Refrigerate: You can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
• Freeze for Later: Lasagna can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Assemble the lasagna in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly, and freeze. To bake, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

Perfect Pairing Suggestions for Barilla Lasagna

Lasagna is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas:

1. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic side that complements lasagna perfectly. The crispy, buttery bread with hints of garlic is ideal for soaking up the extra sauce on your plate.

2. Fresh Salad

A fresh green salad provides a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of lasagna. Consider a simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers add color and nutrition to your meal. The natural sweetness of roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of lasagna.

4. Antipasto Platter

An antipasto platter with a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes for an excellent appetizer or side dish. It adds a touch of Italian flair and provides a variety of flavors and textures to complement the lasagna.

5. Tomato Basil Bruschetta

Bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze is another great accompaniment. The bright, tangy flavors help cut through the richness of the lasagna.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Barilla Lasagna Recipe

Conclusion

This classic Barilla lasagna recipe is a crowd-pleasing dish that is easy to prepare and loaded with flavor. With its tender noodles, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese layers, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you choose to stick with the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this lasagna will surely delight your family and friends.

Take your time to follow each step, experiment with different ingredients, and, most importantly, enjoy the process of creating a meal that brings everyone together. Try this recipe today and treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of authentic Italian comfort.