Sheet Pan Lasagna Twist

Sheet Pan Lasagna makes lasagna night easier than ever. Built straight on a sheet pan, every bite comes with just the right amount of crispy edges and gooey cheese. It brings all the comfort of classic lasagna but feeds a crowd and makes clean-up a breeze.

The first time I made this was for my daughter's birthday party and not only did it disappear fast but everyone wanted the recipe for their own gatherings.

Ingredients

• Oven ready lasagna noodles: These save time since you do not have to preboil Look for whole wheat or durum wheat for sturdier layers
• Ground beef and ground pork: Combination creates the classic rich flavor Look for meat with some fat for best taste and moisture
• Marinara sauce: A good quality jarred sauce or homemade makes all the difference Try for one with no added sugar and plenty of herbs
• Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess Go for whole milk ricotta for best results
• Cottage cheese: Optional but it lightens the filling and adds more texture Use small curd cottage cheese if available
• Mozzarella cheese: Both shredded and fresh for meltiness and that classic stretch Use whole milk mozzarella for depth of flavor
• Eggs: Bind the cheese mixture and make the filling set up Use large eggs for best stability
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty salty depth Look for freshly grated for real impact
• Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder: These layer in Italian flavor Try making your own blend for extra freshness
• Fresh parsley and basil: Add brightness and that final herbal note Try to use fresh if possible but dried will work in a pinch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375F and get a half sheet pan ready by lightly greasing or lining with foil for easy clean up

Cook the Meat Sauce:

Brown the ground beef and pork together in a large pan using medium heat Stir often and break up the meat as it cooks until there is no more pink This usually takes 7 to 10 minutes Season with Italian seasoning salt and pepper Stir in marinara sauce and let it come together on the heat for another minute Remove from heat and set aside

Prepare the Ricotta Filling:

In a medium bowl combine ricotta cheese cottage cheese eggs half the Parmesan cheese salt pepper basil parsley garlic powder and onion powder Mix until smooth and creamy

First Layer:

Spoon half the meat sauce onto the sheet pan and spread it out into an even layer

Noodle Layer:

Lay half the lasagna noodles side by side over the sauce Make sure to cover most of the sauce and even snap pieces to fill gaps

Spread the Ricotta Mixture:

Carefully spoon the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles and use a spatula to gently spread it into an even layer Take your time and be sure every corner gets filled

Second Noodle Layer:

Place the rest of the lasagna noodles over the ricotta layer in an even single layer

Finish with Meat Sauce:

Add the remaining meat sauce on top Spread it evenly making sure to cover all the noodles

Bake Covered:

Cover the entire pan tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes This steams the interior and ensures everything sets up without drying out

Prepare Cheese Topping:

While lasagna is baking slice the fresh mozzarella so it is ready to layer

Add Cheese Topping:

After 30 minutes remove foil Arrange fresh mozzarella slices evenly over the top Sprinkle over shredded mozzarella and the rest of the Parmesan

Final Bake:

Return to the oven uncovered Bake another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted golden and bubbly

Rest Before Slicing:

Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting This helps the layers set so you get those perfect slices

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle over fresh basil parsley and extra Parmesan for that final touch Serve while warm

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I love how the noodles on the edge crisp up on a sheet pan It always reminds me of Sunday dinners where everyone wanted a corner piece My kids now fight over those cheesy corners just like I did growing up

Storage Tips

After cooking and cooling fully slice the lasagna into portions Place in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to four days For longer storage wrap portions in plastic and foil then freeze up to two months To reheat cover with foil and bake at 350F until hot through or microwave individual slices for a quick meal

Ingredient Substitutions

Instead of beef and pork try ground turkey chicken or even a plant based meat blend You can swap cottage cheese for more ricotta or use mascarpone for extra richness Fresh spinach can be stirred into the ricotta mixture for a boost of greens and some roasted veggies work great added to the meat sauce for more flavor and color

Serving Suggestions

Serve big squares with a crisp green salad or simple garlic bread For a heartier spread offer roasted vegetables on the side and a little extra marinara for spooning You can also cut small squares for a party platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing

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Cultural and Historical Context

Lasagna originated as a layered pasta dish in Italy and has many regional varieties Making it on a sheet pan is a modern twist often found in Italian American kitchens It takes the core principles of layers richness and those iconic crispy edges and makes it simpler for busy cooks Modern families love it for how it stretches to feed a crowd

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use regular lasagna noodles?

Oven-ready noodles are recommended for ease, but you can use regular noodles if you boil them until just flexible before assembling.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese is a good alternative, or blend cottage cheese for a creamier texture.

→ How do I prevent dry edges on the sheet pan?

Ensure your noodles are fully covered with sauce and cheese, and cover tightly with foil during baking.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything on the pan, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking as directed.

→ What other meats can be used?

Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles can be substituted for beef and pork if preferred.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftover lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.