Barilla Lasagna Recipe

There’s something magical about lasagna. The layers of cheese, meat, and pasta create a dish that’s comforting, hearty, and downright irresistible. When I make lasagna, I always reach for Barilla lasagna sheets because they’re reliable, easy to use, and deliver the perfect texture every time. Whether you’re making this dish for a big family dinner or meal prepping for the week, my step-by-step guide Barilla Lasagna Recipe will help you create the best lasagna ever.

Ingredients for Barilla Lasagna Recipe

When I’m prepping for lasagna, the first step is gathering the best ingredients. I’ve learned that quality really makes all the difference.

Barilla Lasagna Noodles: 12 sheets (oven-ready or traditional)
Ground Meat: 1 pound (beef, turkey, or chicken)
Marinara Sauce: 4 cups (store-bought or homemade)
Ricotta Cheese: 2 cups
Mozzarella Cheese: 3 cups, shredded
Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
Eggs: 2 large
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Onion: 1 medium, diced
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Basil and Oregano: 1 teaspoon each (optional for extra flavor)

Step by Step Instruction for Barilla Lasagna Recipe

Creating the perfect lasagna has never been easier with these step-by-step instructions for Barilla lasagna recipe. From preparing the layers to achieving the ultimate golden, cheesy top, this guide will walk you through every detail. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, you’ll love how simple it is to craft this rich and flavorful Italian classic using Barilla’s quality lasagna sheets.

Preparing the Sauce

Making Meat Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
Add ground meat and cook until browned.
Stir in marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Vegetarian Sauce Option

Replace ground meat with diced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
Cook the vegetables in olive oil until tender.
Add marinara sauce and seasonings, then simmer for 10 minutes.

Preparing the Ricotta Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
Add a pinch of salt and mix until smooth.

Choosing the Right Barilla Lasagna Noodles

For oven-ready noodles, no boiling is needed.
If using traditional noodles, cook them in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a clean surface to prevent sticking.

Layering the Lasagna

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of the baking dish.
Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.
Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture, followed by the meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.

Baking the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
Bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Letting It Rest

Allow the lasagna to rest for 15-20 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

A slice of Barilla lasagna recipe, featuring layers of rich meat sauce, pasta, and melted cheese, served on a white plate with fresh basil garnish and bread in the background.

Serving Suggestions for Barilla Lasagna Recipe

Once you’ve followed our step-by-step guide for the Barilla lasagna recipe and your dish is perfectly baked and rested, it’s time to plan the perfect presentation. Here are some of my favorite serving ideas to transform your lasagna into a complete and satisfying meal:

1. Fresh Garden Salad

A light, crisp garden salad is the perfect accompaniment to lasagna’s rich, cheesy flavors. I love tossing together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, then drizzling them with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.

Tip: Add some shaved Parmesan or croutons for extra texture.

2. Garlic Bread or Breadsticks

Nothing beats warm, buttery garlic bread on the side of a hearty lasagna. I make mine by brushing slices of baguette or Italian bread with garlic-infused butter, then toasting them until golden. Soft breadsticks are another great choice for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Tip: Sprinkle the bread with a bit of parsley or Parmesan before serving for added flavor.

3. Roasted Vegetables

If you’re looking to balance the meal, roasted vegetables are a great option. I like to roast zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus with olive oil, salt, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs. The roasted flavors complement the lasagna without overpowering it.

Tip: Serve the veggies on the same plate for a colorful, inviting presentation.

4. Antipasto Platter

For a truly Italian experience, start your meal with an antipasto platter. I usually include items like cured meats (salami, prosciutto), marinated olives, artichoke hearts, and a variety of cheeses.

Tip: Add some roasted red peppers or bruschetta for a touch of sweetness.

5. Desserts to End the Meal

Finish your Italian feast with a classic dessert. My favorites are:

Tiramisu: Creamy, coffee-soaked layers that complement the richness of lasagna.
Cannoli: A sweet, crunchy treat filled with ricotta and chocolate chips.
Gelato: Light and refreshing, with flavors like pistachio or vanilla to cleanse the palate.

6. Serving Lasagna Family-Style

Lasagna is a dish that’s meant to be shared. I like to place the baking dish right on the table and let everyone help themselves. It creates a warm, communal vibe that makes the meal even more enjoyable.

Tip: Have extra sauce and grated Parmesan on the side for anyone who wants more.

7. Portion Presentation

For a more formal dinner, I slice the lasagna into even portions and plate each serving with a drizzle of sauce and a sprig of fresh basil. This makes the meal look as good as it tastes.

8. Adding a Soup Starter

Begin your meal with a bowl of minestrone or creamy tomato soup. The soup warms up your guests and sets the stage for the star of the show—your Barilla lasagna.

With these serving suggestions, your lasagna dinner will feel like an authentic Italian feast. Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to savor every bite!

Barilla lasagna recipe with perfectly baked layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese, presented on a white plate with a side of bread and basil.

FAQ’s

Do You Need to Boil Barilla Lasagna Sheets?

Barilla offers both no-boil and traditional lasagna sheets, and the answer depends on which type you’re using:

No-Boil Lasagna Sheets: These sheets are designed to be used straight out of the package. Simply layer them with sauce and other ingredients, and they’ll cook perfectly in the oven as they absorb moisture during baking.
Traditional Lasagna Sheets: These sheets do require boiling before use. Cook them in salted boiling water for a few minutes until they’re al dente. Drain them carefully to avoid tearing, and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel before assembling the lasagna.

What Are the Correct Layers for Lasagna?

There’s no strict rule, but a classic lasagna typically has 3–4 layers of pasta. Here’s how I like to layer my lasagna for the best results:

Start with Sauce: Always begin with a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking.
Layering Pattern: Follow this sequence: pasta sheets, cheese mixture, meat (or vegetables), and sauce. Repeat until you reach the top.
Top Layer: Finish with pasta sheets covered generously with sauce and shredded cheese to create a golden, bubbly crust.

For a taller lasagna, add more layers, but ensure the dish doesn’t overflow during baking.

Do Dry Lasagna Sheets Need to Be Boiled?

It depends on the type of sheets:

No-Boil Sheets: These don’t require boiling. Make sure your sauce is slightly runnier than usual to provide enough moisture for the sheets to cook in the oven.
Dry Sheets Without No-Boil Label: Traditional dry sheets typically need to be boiled before use unless the package explicitly states otherwise.

Pro Tip: If you’re in a hurry, soaking traditional sheets in hot water for 10–15 minutes can be an alternative to boiling.

Do You Cook Lasagna Covered with Foil or Not?

Yes, you should cover your lasagna with foil for part of the baking process to prevent it from drying out. Here’s how I do it:

Cover First: During the first 30–40 minutes of baking, cover the dish with foil. This traps steam and ensures the pasta sheets cook evenly.
- Use non-stick foil or lightly spray the foil with oil to prevent the cheese from sticking.
Uncover Later: For the last 10–15 minutes, remove the foil. This allows the cheese on top to melt and turn golden-brown, creating that beautiful crust everyone loves.

By balancing covered and uncovered baking, you’ll achieve lasagna that’s moist on the inside and perfectly crisp on top.

Conclusion

Making lasagna is a labor of love that brings together delicious ingredients, simple techniques, and the joy of sharing a comforting meal with loved ones. Whether you’re using Barilla no-boil sheets for convenience or boiling traditional sheets for a classic touch, lasagna is all about creating layers of flavor and texture. By following the right steps—like balancing the layers, using enough sauce for moisture, and baking with foil before finishing uncovered—you can craft a dish that’s truly unforgettable.

Lasagna isn’t just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a centerpiece for family gatherings, and a go-to comfort food that everyone enjoys. So roll up your sleeves, gather your favorite ingredients, and make a lasagna that reflects your personal style and taste. Trust me, every bite will be worth it!