Deep Dish Lasagna

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas, Deep Dish Lasagna is the way to go. This recipe layers rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella cheese between tender pasta sheets, baked to bubbly perfection in a deep dish pan. Perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings, this lasagna promises a satisfying experience with every bite. Ready to dive into a dish that’s both classic and crowd-pleasing? Let’s get started.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Deep dish lasagna stands out for its generous layers and rich texture, offering more than just a meal—it delivers an experience. Unlike thinner versions, this style allows you to savor the balance of flavors in every forkful, with enough sauce, cheese, and meat to satisfy even the heartiest appetite. It’s a dish that brings people together, perfect for special occasions or cozy nights when you want a taste of Italian comfort food at home. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your pantry and preferences, making it a go-to recipe that you’ll return to time and again.

What You’ll Need

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil for garnish

Setup & Equipment

• Large pot – to boil the lasagna noodles
• Large skillet – for cooking the meat sauce
• Deep baking dish (9×13 inches or similar) – to assemble and bake your deep dish lasagna
• Mixing bowl – to combine ricotta cheese and egg
• Spoon or spatula – for spreading sauce and cheese layers evenly
• Aluminum foil – to cover while baking to prevent over-browning

Deep Dish Lasagna: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 lasagna noodles and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a sheet of parchment or a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the ground beef and ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, then stir in dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and egg until smooth and well mixed. This mixture will add creaminess and help bind the layers together.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your deep baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.

Place 3 to 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping as needed. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with one cup of shredded mozzarella and a bit of grated Parmesan.

Repeat the layering process two more times: noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Finish with a final layer of noodles topped generously with meat sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let the lasagna rest for about 15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set perfectly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a bright, herbaceous finish. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting layers of your homemade deep dish lasagna.

What to Use Instead

• Ground chicken or lamb – as alternative proteins to beef and turkey.
• Whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles – for dietary preferences.
• Fresh tomatoes and tomato puree – in place of canned crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce for a fresher sauce.
• Cottage cheese – can substitute ricotta for a lighter texture.
• Vegan cheese alternatives – if you want a dairy-free version.

Flavor Logic

This Deep Dish Lasagna recipe balances robust meatiness with creamy cheese layers and herbaceous tomato sauce. The combination of ground beef and turkey brings a depth of flavor and moist texture that keeps the dish from feeling heavy. The garlic and onion build essential savory notes, while the dried basil and oregano add aromatic warmth. The ricotta and egg mixture create creamy layers that contrast the tomato sauce’s tanginess, and the mozzarella melts into gooey goodness, complemented by the sharpness of Parmesan. Fresh basil on top brightens every bite with a fresh pop of herbal flavor.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

You can prepare this Deep Dish Lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the lasagna fully but hold off on baking. Cover the dish tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes if baking straight from the fridge. This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to 4 days, and you can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the dish’s comforting texture.

Quick Questions

Can I use only one type of ground meat?

Absolutely! You can use all ground beef, turkey, chicken, or lamb based on your preference or availability. Just keep the total meat amount consistent to maintain the balance of flavors and texture.

Do I need to pre-cook the lasagna noodles?

Yes, for this recipe, boiling the noodles until al dente ensures they soften properly during baking. However, some no-boil noodles can be used if you adjust the sauce consistency accordingly.

How do I prevent the lasagna from being watery?

Simmering the meat sauce until thick helps reduce excess liquid. Also, draining the cooked ground meat and using the right amount of sauce prevents sogginess. Letting the lasagna rest after baking allows moisture to redistribute evenly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free varieties available at most grocery stores. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• No Noodle Zucchini Lasagna – a fresh and lighter twist on traditional lasagna using zucchini slices instead of pasta.
• The Best Homemade Lasagna Recipe – a classic layered lasagna with a rich meat sauce and creamy cheese blend.

Next Steps

Once you’ve mastered this Deep Dish Lasagna, feel free to get creative by adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables between the layers. Experimenting with different cheeses like provolone or fontina can add new dimensions of flavor. Pair your lasagna with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. Don’t forget to save any leftovers—they taste even better the next day!

Deep dish lasagna is the epitome of comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your dining table. Its layers of tender noodles, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese make it a timeless favorite everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe delivers a memorable meal that’s both filling and delicious. Happy cooking and buon appetito!

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