Tomato lasagna is the kind of dish that makes your heart sing. Picture layers of luscious, cheesy goodness interspersed with robust tomato sauce, all bubbling to perfection in a warm oven. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and promising comfort food at its finest. perfect summer salad pairing You can practically hear the angels harmonizing as you take that first forkful, bringing a smile even on the toughest days.

This hearty meal has a special place in my heart, as it often graced our family table during chilly Sunday dinners. Everyone gathered around, eagerly waiting for that first slice to be served, and the laughter flowed as freely as the tomato sauce. a hearty Mediterranean side Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering with friends, tomato lasagna always brings people together for an unforgettable experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Tomato lasagna is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any skill level in the kitchen
- Each bite bursts with flavor thanks to fresh ingredients and aromatic spices
- The vibrant layers create a visual feast, making it ideal for impressing guests at dinner parties
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins!
There was that one time my friend Sarah tasted my tomato lasagna and declared it “life-changing.” Her dramatic flair made me chuckle, but I couldn’t help but feel proud!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Lasagna Noodles: Choose between traditional or no-boil noodles; both work great and provide different textures.
- Fresh Tomatoes: Ripe and juicy tomatoes will elevate your sauce; they’re sweeter and more flavorful than canned ones.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness; opt for whole milk ricotta for an even creamier texture.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use whole milk mozzarella for maximum stretchiness; this cheese is the gooey glue of your lasagna.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty kick; fresh grated forms a beautiful crust when baked. For more inspiration, check out this garlic parmesan smashed potatoes recipe.
- Fresh Basil: Aromatic basil enhances flavor; chop it finely or layer whole leaves for bursts of freshness.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of quality olive oil enriches the sauce; choose extra virgin for superior taste.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic provides depth of flavor; sauté until fragrant before adding tomatoes.
- Onion: Sweet onions caramelize beautifully; they add sweetness that complements the acidity of tomatoes.
- Salt and Pepper: Season everything generously to enhance flavors; adjust according to taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the onion and garlic finely while savoring their enticing aromas filling your kitchen.
Cook the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté onions until they turn translucent and sweet-smelling. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—don’t let it burn!
Add Fresh Tomatoes: Toss in chopped fresh tomatoes along with salt and pepper. Stir well and let simmer for about 15 minutes until thickened. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Create Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the grated Parmesan and chopped basil. This creamy concoction will transform each layer into pure bliss.
Assemble Your Lasagna: Spread some sauce on the bottom of your baking dish before layering noodles on top. Alternate layers of cheese mixture, sauce, noodles—repeat until you run out!
Bake It! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses before covering with foil. Bake covered for 25 minutes then remove foil to bake another 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
Now you’ve created an irresistible tomato lasagna! Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing—this step prevents chaotic servings and allows flavors to meld beautifully. delightful dessert option explore unique pizza recipes.
Your family will be diving into this classic comfort food with gusto! Enjoy your creation over good conversation or perhaps while watching your favorite movie—it’s truly a crowd-pleaser! For more inspiration, check out this easy bangers and mash recipe.
You Must Know
- This Tomato Lasagna recipe is not only delicious but also allows for endless customization
- The rich, savory aroma fills your kitchen, transporting you to a cozy Italian trattoria
- Perfect for family dinners, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the tomato sauce first, allowing it to simmer while you assemble the layers of lasagna. This ensures every bite is infused with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheeses or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a twist. Experimenting makes each lasagna uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs in your sauce for an aromatic boost; they elevate the taste significantly
- Make sure to layer ingredients evenly to prevent sogginess
- Allow the lasagna to rest before slicing; this helps it hold its shape beautifully
Creating my first Tomato Lasagna was a culinary adventure that turned into a family favorite, receiving rave reviews from everyone at the dinner table.
FAQ
What can I substitute if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese works well as a ricotta alternative and adds great texture.
Can I prepare Tomato Lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, assembling it a day in advance can enhance flavors dramatically.
How do I keep my lasagna from being watery?
Make sure to drain excess moisture from vegetables and use thick tomato sauce.

Tomato Lasagna
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- Author: Mery Mack
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Tomato lasagna is a comforting dish that brings together layers of rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella. This delightful recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, delivering an unforgettable burst of flavor with every bite. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will make your heart sing. Gather your ingredients and enjoy the warmth and joy this classic Italian dish brings to your table.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles (traditional or no-boil)
- 6 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions in olive oil until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes with salt and pepper; simmer for about 15 minutes until thickened.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta with half of the Parmesan and chopped basil.
- Spread some sauce on the bottom of a baking dish; layer noodles, cheese mixture, sauce—repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan; cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg