The aroma of bubbling tomato sauce and melted cheese has a way of wrapping around you like a warm hug. This is the heart of my Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna, a classic Italian-American comfort food that not only fills the belly but feeds the soul as well. Perfect for weeknights when time is tight or for impressing dinner guests, this lasagna can be made ahead, making it an effortless crowd-pleaser. It combines rich layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, allowing for tweaks to suit your personal taste. Whether you want to make it heartier with more meat or a bit lighter with extra veggies, this beloved recipe welcomes creativity. Are you ready to dive into a delicious journey that’s sure to become a staple in your home?

Why is Maggiano’s Lasagna so special?

Layered Comfort: The sheer number of rich, savory layers makes this lasagna a standout. Each bite is packed with incredible flavors, offering a little bit of everything in one serving.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it in advance! This dish saves you time on busy nights—just bake and enjoy!

Customizable Delight: Feel free to switch up ingredients to cater to your family’s preferences. Veggie lovers can easily incorporate roasted vegetables, while meat enthusiasts can double the protein!

Crowd-Pleasing Success: Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this recipe is bound to leave everyone craving more. Consider serving it with a refreshing salad or homemade garlic bread for a meal that impresses!

Comfort in Every Bite: Maggiano’s Lasagna not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart with its homey essence. It’s a dish that invokes nostalgia and joy, transcending mere sustenance to bring people together around the table.

Maggiano’s Lasagna Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

Italian Sausage – Adds rich flavor and depth; substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
Ground Beef – Provides a hearty base; replace with ground lamb or chicken if desired.
Onion – Enhances the sauce’s base flavor; yellow onion is preferred for sweetness.
Garlic – Infuses the meat sauce; fresh minced garlic delivers the best taste.
Crushed Tomatoes – Forms the bulk of the sauce; need two 28-ounce cans for volume.
Tomato Sauce – Complements crushed tomatoes for consistency; one 15-ounce can needed.
Tomato Paste – Intensifies tomato flavor; a 6-ounce can is optional but recommended.
Water – Helps balance sauce thickness; ½ cup required.
Dried Basil – Adds classic Italian herb flavor; one tablespoon is just right.
Italian Seasoning Blend – Provides a mix of herbs; use one teaspoon for a more aromatic touch.
Fennel Seed – Offers traditional sausage flair; ½ teaspoon adds depth.
Granulated Sugar – Balances acidity in tomatoes; two tablespoons can take the edge off.
Black Pepper & Table Salt – Essential seasoning to enhance flavors; add to taste for perfect seasoning.

For the Ricotta Layer

Fresh Parsley – Adds brightness; replace with basil if desired, about two tablespoons.
Ricotta Cheese – Provides a creamy texture; you’ll need 16 ounces for richness.
Whole Egg – Binds the ricotta; optional for a vegan version—simply omit.

For Assembling the Lasagna

Lasagna Pasta – Essential for structure; use 12 sheets (no-boil options save time).
Shredded Mozzarella – Melts beautifully on top; opt for 16 ounces for that gooey finish.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a delicious salty bite; one cup brings everything together.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating a masterpiece! Maggiano’s Lasagna is all about blending flavors and comfort in every bite. Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Maggiano’s Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the Italian sausage and ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked, approximately 8-10 minutes. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring a rich, cohesive meat sauce that forms the base for your Maggiano’s Lasagna.

Step 2: Simmer Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste with the water, followed by the dried basil, Italian seasoning, fennel seed, granulated sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and let the sauce thicken and develop its flavors on low heat for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

Step 3: Mix Ricotta
While the sauce simmers, prepare the ricotta layer. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with chopped fresh parsley, the whole egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. This adds a delicious, rich texture to your Maggiano’s Lasagna, providing a delightful contrast to the savory meat and sauce layers.

Step 4: Cook Pasta Sheets
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the lasagna sheets and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process, then lay them flat on a clean surface to avoid sticking as you prepare to assemble your lasagna.

Step 5: Assemble Lasagna
In a deep baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna sheets over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers (meat sauce, pasta sheets, ricotta, and mozzarella) twice more, finishing with a layer of meat sauce topped with grated Parmesan cheese for that golden finish.

Step 6: Bake
Cover the assembled Maggiano’s Lasagna tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. The heavenly aroma will fill your kitchen as it bakes to perfection!

Step 7: Cool & Serve
Once baked to a glorious golden brown, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes. This cooling period helps set the layers for cleaner slicing. After cooling, cut into squares, serve warm, and relish in the comforting, rich flavors of your homemade Maggiano’s Lasagna!

Make Ahead Options

These Rich Maggiano’s Lasagna are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep lovers! You can prepare the meat sauce and ricotta mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the meat sauce in an airtight container and store the ricotta mixture in a covered bowl. When you’re ready to serve, cook the lasagna sheets and assemble it as directed. For best results, layer the sauce and pasta just before baking to maintain the texture. Once assembled, cover the lasagna tightly with foil and it can also be frozen for up to 3 months; simply bake from frozen, adding a little extra time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbling beautifully. Enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort!

Maggiano’s Lasagna: Customization Ideas

Feel free to put your own spin on Maggiano’s Lasagna with these delightful variations to cater to your taste buds!

Vegetarian Swap: Replace the meat with a medley of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a savory, veggie-packed delight. This option adds a lovely earthiness while still being hearty and satisfying.
Dairy-Free Delight: Opt for almond or cashew ricotta as a creamy vegan substitute in place of traditional ricotta. Pair with plant-based mozzarella for layers of richness without the dairy!
Extra Spice: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce. This small addition brings a warm kick, perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their comfort food.
Pasta Variety: Use whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles to cater to dietary needs without compromising on that comforting layer structure. This swap keeps the dish delicious while providing a healthier twist.
Herb Infusion: Elevate the flavor profile by mixing fresh basil and oregano into the ricotta layer. Fresh herbs will brighten the overall taste and add a wonderful aroma.
Layer It On: Add an additional layer of fresh spinach or kale between the pasta and cheese layers for bonus texture and nutritional benefits. Such a simple change can make this lasagna even healthier!
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked sausage or pancetta in place of the regular Italian sausage for an intriguing twist that brings in delicious, smoky notes.
Ricotta Variation: For a subtle and creamy flavor, try mixing in some mascarpone cheese with the ricotta. This will make every bite luxuriously rich and velvety.

Experimenting with these ideas can turn your Maggiano’s Lasagna into something uniquely yours, making every bite an experience. Remember, the kitchen is your canvas, and this recipe is just the beginning! If you’re looking for more tips on how to enhance your meals, consider checking out some of my favorite vegetarian recipes or ideas for freezing leftovers. Happy cooking!

What to Serve With Maggiano’s Lasagna?

Maggiano’s Lasagna is sure to steal the show, but the right accompaniments will elevate your meal to perfection. Here are some delightful options to consider.

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread provides a comforting crunch, perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons add freshness, balancing the richness of the lasagna beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies caramelized in olive oil bring color and sweetness to your plate, complementing the savory layers.

A light, zesty side like a Caprese salad is a delightful addition. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil create a refreshing contrast, ensuring your meal is as vibrant as it is comforting.

Italian Chianti: A robust red wine, like Chianti, enhances the umami flavors in the dish, making each bite even more satisfying.
Tiramisu: Finish off your meal with a classic Italian dessert. Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream bring sweet satisfaction to this comforting feast!
Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables adds variety for an inviting, shareable starter!

Expert Tips for Maggiano’s Lasagna

Simmer for Flavor: Allow the meat sauce to simmer for a full 90 minutes. This deepens flavors and creates a rich base for your Maggiano’s Lasagna.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Par-cook lasagna sheets just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking. This ensures a perfect texture.
Layer Evenly: Spread each layer evenly for consistent flavor and easier slicing later. This simple trick makes your lasagna visually appealing.
Cooling Time: Let the lasagna cool for 15 minutes before cutting. This helps the layers set, resulting in perfect slices that hold together.
Store Wisely: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze for up to 3 months for a convenient meal later!

How to Store and Freeze Maggiano’s Lasagna

Fridge: Keep your cooled Maggiano’s Lasagna in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures freshness while preventing any odors from other food items from seeping in.

Freezer: For longer storage, tightly wrap the lasagna in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 3 months, making future meals a breeze!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your lasagna, thaw it overnight in the fridge if frozen, then reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.

Portion Control: Consider slicing your lasagna into individual portions before freezing. This allows you to easily grab a slice whenever a comforting meal craves your attention!

Maggiano’s Lasagna Recipe FAQs

What are the best ingredients for a flavorful meat sauce?
Absolutely! Using a combination of Italian sausage and ground beef will give your sauce a rich, savory depth. I recommend looking for Italian sausage with a good spice level to enhance the overall flavor profile. Fresh garlic and yellow onion are also key players in elevating your meat sauce, while crushed tomatoes form the base. Always opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best results!

How should I store leftover Maggiano’s Lasagna?
Very easy! After allowing your lasagna to cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it can last for up to 3 months!

Can I freeze Maggiano’s Lasagna?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great option for this dish. Here’s how to do it: First, let the lasagna cool completely to prevent condensation. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no air pockets, and then add another layer of aluminum foil. Label it with the date and pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat at 350°F for about 30–40 minutes.

What if my lasagna is too watery?
If your lasagna turns out watery, don’t worry! You can try a couple of fixes. First, ensure that your meat sauce has been simmered long enough—about 90 minutes—to allow it to thicken. If it’s already baked, you can let it sit for a while after baking, as this will help the layers set. Next time, consider cooking your pasta sheets al dente to absorb some of the sauce while baking!

Are there any dietary considerations for pets?
That’s a thoughtful question! While it might be tempting to share your delicious Maggiano’s Lasagna with furry family members, it’s best to avoid giving them any. Ingredients like garlic, onions, and certain spices can be harmful to pets. If you want to share some love, offer them plain cooked meat or vegetables for a safe treat.