Barilla lasagna embodies the rich flavors of traditional Italian cuisine, combining layers of pasta, creamy cheese, hearty meat sauce, and fragrant herbs. This dish has become a beloved staple in households around the world, offering a versatile and crowd-pleasing meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, special celebration, or meal prep, this Barilla lasagna recipe delivers consistent and delicious results.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make Barilla lasagna from scratch, along with tips for perfecting each layer, variations to suit different tastes, and serving suggestions to complete the meal.
What Makes Barilla Lasagna Unique?
- High-Quality Pasta: Barilla lasagna sheets are made from premium durum wheat, ensuring they hold their structure while cooking and provide a smooth, firm texture.
- Easy to Use: Barilla’s no-boil lasagna sheets simplify preparation, eliminating the need for pre-cooking.
- Customizable Layers: The recipe allows for endless creativity, whether you prefer a traditional meat sauce, vegetarian filling, or extra layers of cheese.
Ingredients for Barilla Lasagna
Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- Pinch of salt
Assembly:
- 1 box Barilla no-boil lasagna sheets
- 1–2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Season with dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Mix the Cheese Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix well until smooth and set aside.
3. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
4. Assemble the Lasagna
- Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place a single layer of Barilla no-boil lasagna sheets over the sauce, slightly overlapping them if needed.
- Spread ⅓ of the cheese mixture over the lasagna sheets, followed by 1½ cups of the meat sauce.
- Repeat the layers (lasagna sheets, cheese mixture, and meat sauce) two more times, ending with a final layer of lasagna sheets and meat sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese to avoid sticking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
6. Rest and Serve
- Let the lasagna cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Barilla Lasagna
- Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality tomatoes, fresh herbs, and good cheese enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Balance the Sauce: Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to develop and thickens it to the right consistency, preventing a watery lasagna.
- Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Generous layers of cheese ensure a creamy texture in every bite.
- Allow Time to Rest: Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps the layers set, preventing them from falling apart when sliced.
- Adjust for Dietary Needs: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Creative Variations
1. Vegetarian Lasagna
Replace the meat sauce with a vegetable-packed marinara. Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant between the layers for extra flavor and texture.
2. White Sauce Lasagna
Swap the tomato-based sauce for a creamy béchamel or Alfredo sauce. Pair it with shredded chicken and steamed broccoli for a rich, comforting alternative.
3. Gluten-Free Lasagna
Use Barilla’s gluten-free lasagna sheets and ensure all other ingredients, such as sauces and cheeses, are gluten-free.
4. Spicy Lasagna
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the meat sauce for a spicy kick. Pepper jack cheese can replace mozzarella for extra heat.
5. Seafood Lasagna
Incorporate cooked shrimp, crab, or scallops into the layers. Pair the seafood with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a luxurious dish.
Serving Suggestions
Barilla lasagna pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, creating a complete Italian-inspired meal. Here are some ideas:
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread to complement the rich flavors of the lasagna.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with balsamic vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers make for a healthy side.
- Caprese Salad: Sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil bring a fresh, classic Italian touch.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot enhances the flavors of the dish.
How to Store and Reheat Lasagna
Storing
- Cover leftover lasagna tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Allow the lasagna to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 20–30 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed.
Why Barilla Lasagna is a Family Favorite
Barilla lasagna delivers a comforting, flavorful dish that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Its customizable nature allows you to adapt it to dietary preferences and occasions, making it a go-to meal for family dinners, holidays, and celebrations. The use of Barilla’s no-boil lasagna sheets simplifies preparation without compromising on quality, making homemade lasagna more accessible for everyone.
Using Barilla No-Boil Lasagna Sheets
Barilla’s no-boil lasagna sheets simplify the preparation process, making lasagna more approachable even for beginners. These sheets cook perfectly in the oven, soaking up the sauce and creating tender, flavorful layers without the need for pre-cooking. To ensure even cooking, spread an adequate amount of sauce between layers, as the sheets rely on the moisture from the sauce to soften. For best results, cover the dish with foil during the initial baking time to trap steam and help the sheets cook evenly.
Enhancing the Flavor with Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and oregano elevate the flavors of Barilla lasagna, giving it a more authentic Italian taste. Add chopped basil or parsley to the cheese mixture for a burst of freshness in every bite. Sprinkling fresh oregano over the final cheese topping before baking adds an aromatic touch to the dish. If you have access to fresh thyme or rosemary, consider incorporating them into the meat sauce for a fragrant, earthy undertone.
Customizing Layers for Extra Richness
Adding unique layers to your lasagna can create a richer, more flavorful dish. Consider layering thinly sliced vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, for added texture and nutrients. If you’re a fan of cheese, increase the amount of mozzarella or Parmesan in the cheese mixture or sprinkle extra cheese between the pasta sheets for gooier layers. For a smoky twist, add crumbled cooked bacon or pancetta to the meat sauce. These small additions make the lasagna uniquely yours while maintaining its classic appeal.
Pairing Lasagna with Seasonal Ingredients
Seasonal ingredients can complement Barilla lasagna and make the dish even more special. In the summer, pair it with a light tomato and cucumber salad, or add fresh spinach and arugula to your sides. In the fall, roasted butternut squash or caramelized onions add a sweet contrast to the savory lasagna. Winter calls for hearty sides like garlic mashed potatoes or sautéed Brussels sprouts, while spring offers the perfect opportunity to incorporate asparagus or peas. Adapting the meal to the season ensures it feels fresh and fitting for any occasion.
Making Lasagna Ahead of Time
Barilla lasagna is an excellent make-ahead meal, perfect for meal prepping or entertaining. Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the lasagna to sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking. This preparation method allows the flavors to develop further, resulting in an even tastier dish. For events, assembling the lasagna ahead reduces stress and allows you to focus on entertaining guests.
Serving Lasagna for Special Occasions
Barilla lasagna isn’t just a weeknight favorite—it also works beautifully as a centerpiece for special occasions. Its layered presentation and rich flavors make it an elegant yet comforting dish for holidays, birthdays, or dinner parties. Serve it alongside a selection of Italian-inspired appetizers, such as bruschetta, stuffed mushrooms, or an antipasto platter, to create a full dining experience. Offering wine pairings or non-alcoholic mocktails adds an extra touch of sophistication, making your lasagna dinner feel like a celebration.
Turning Leftovers into Creative Meals
Leftover Barilla lasagna transforms into a variety of delicious meals. Reheat individual slices for a quick lunch, or chop the lasagna into bite-sized pieces and use them to fill bell peppers or mushrooms before baking. For a fun twist, turn leftover slices into lasagna sandwiches by placing them between two slices of toasted garlic bread. You can also layer the leftovers into a casserole dish with additional cheese and bake until bubbly for a reinvented second meal. These creative ideas ensure no lasagna goes to waste while keeping your meals exciting.
Conclusion
Barilla lasagna offers the perfect balance of rich flavors, creamy textures, and hearty satisfaction. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with creative variations, this dish brings the warmth and tradition of Italian cuisine to your table. Pair it with your favorite sides, enjoy it fresh from the oven, and savor the joy of a homemade meal. Try this recipe today and experience why Barilla lasagna remains a timeless favorite!