Name: How to make the best Maggiano’s Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 lasagna noodles; 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb Italian sausage; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cans (6 oz each) tomato paste; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

How to make the best Maggiano’s Lasagna

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Dinner

How to make the best Maggiano’s Lasagna

Home

Dinner

How to make the best Maggiano’s Lasagna

June 18, 2025

Author : Megan C

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How to Make the Best Maggiano’s Lasagna: A Heavenly Layered Delight 🍝🍅✨

1. Introduction

delicious baked Maggiano’s Lasagna, appetizing golden layers ready to enjoy

Welcome to your ultimate guide on how to make the best Maggiano’s Lasagna! This delightful dish is a true Italian-American classic, featuring decadent layers of perfectly cooked pasta, a rich and savory meat sauce, and a generous helping of mouthwatering cheeses. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner party, preparing a comforting family meal, or simply craving a taste of Italy, this Maggiano’s Lasagna recipe will undoubtedly be the star of the table. In this article, we will guide you through a detailed, step-by-step process to create a lasagna that rivals the restaurant version, ensuring a truly superb culinary experience! If you’re looking for other delicious pasta dishes, why not try our Marry Me Chicken Pasta?

2. Ingredients for the Best Maggiano’s Style Lasagna

To create the best Maggiano’s Lasagna, gather the following high-quality ingredients. Freshness and quality matter!

12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or regular)
1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for flavor)
1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot, casings removed)
1 large onion, finely diced
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cans (6 oz each) tomato paste
1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
1 large egg
3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Maggiano’s Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients – The Foundation of Flavor

chopping vegetables for Maggiano’s Lasagna, fresh ingredients preparation

Begin your culinary adventure by gathering all your fresh ingredients and prepping them meticulously. Dice the onion into small, uniform pieces and mince the garlic finely. Accurate preparation sets the cornerstone for an unforgettable Maggiano’s Lasagna! For more delicious recipes, check out our Dinner category.

Step 2: Craft the Rich Meat Sauce – The Heart of the Lasagna

making meat sauce for Maggiano’s Lasagna, simmering-rich flavors

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Break the meat apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the meat is browned, drain off any excess grease. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Add the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully and deepen. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be!

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna – Layering to Perfection

layering ingredients for Maggiano’s Lasagna, assembling the perfect dish

Now, it’s time to carefully layer your soon-to-be-delicious Maggiano’s Lasagna. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Start by spreading a thin, even layer of meat sauce (about 1 cup) at the bottom of the dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking. Next, arrange three lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping if necessary. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg, mixing well to ensure it’s smooth. Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers – meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan – until all of the ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. This cheese layer will create that irresistible, bubbly golden-brown crust.

Step 4: Bake the Lasagna – Golden, Bubbly Goodness Awaits

adding cheese to Maggiano’s Lasagna, preparing for baking

Cover the assembled lasagna tightly with aluminum foil. Bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly, golden brown, and the cheese is melted and slightly browned. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Once done, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the lasagna to set and makes it easier to cut and serve. Letting those delicious flavors settle in is key!

4. Storage Tips for Your Maggiano’s Lasagna

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers of this amazing Maggiano’s Lasagna, proper storage is essential to maintain its delightful flavor and texture. You can store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For even longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil or place them in freezer-safe bags. Frozen lasagna can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer—perfect for a convenient and satisfying meal later! Another option is to explore our Chicken Bread Recipe for another easy freezer option.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Ultimate Lasagna Experience

Serve your Maggiano’s Lasagna warm with a side of freshly baked garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for soaking up that delicious sauce. A crisp, refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the lasagna perfectly. To elevate this meal to a truly restaurant-quality experience that everyone will enjoy, pair it with a glass of your favorite red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon. Check out this similar recipe at RecipeFlash! And if you’re in the mood for another cheesy dish, don’t miss our Classic Style Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese Recipe.

6. FAQs – Your Questions Answered About The Best Maggiano’s Lasagna

What exactly makes Maggiano’s Lasagna so unique and special?

Maggiano’s Lasagna is distinguished by its indulgent layers of robust flavors, meticulously combining seasoned meats, a creamy blend of cheeses, and a rich, homemade tomato sauce. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that make it a truly unforgettable dish. Ready for something different? Consider our easy Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese Recipe!

Can I prepare this lasagna in advance, or does it need to be made fresh?

Yes, absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead of time, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it before baking. This is a fantastic time-saving tip for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. Looking for more make-ahead meals? Our new take on Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese could be your next favorite.

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe to save time?

Yes, you can certainly use no-boil lasagna noodles. However, be sure to add a bit more sauce to the lasagna to ensure that the noodles fully hydrate during baking. This will prevent them from being dry or crunchy.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of Maggiano’s Lasagna?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and Italian sausage. You can replace the meat with vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables with the onions and garlic before adding them to the tomato sauce. For another tasty alternative, try our Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese Recipe.

7. Conclusion – Mastering the Art of Maggiano’s Lasagna

In conclusion, mastering how to make the best Maggiano’s Lasagna is absolutely within your reach! This meticulously layered dish will not only tantalize your taste buds with its rich and savory flavors but will also undoubtedly impress your family and friends. Embrace your culinary creativity, personalize the recipe to your liking, and above all, enjoy your homemade creation. Don’t forget to savor every delicious, comforting bite!

8. Share Your Experience – Let’s Connect Over Lasagna!

We would absolutely love to hear about how your homemade Maggiano’s Lasagna turned out! Share your photos, cooking tips, and personal experiences with us in the comments section below. Your insights and feedback not only inspire us but also provide valuable tips and tricks for other home cooks who are eager to embark on their own lasagna-making adventures!

9. Conclusion – Your Journey to Lasagna Perfection Starts Now!

Thank you for joining us on this delightful culinary journey! With this detailed guide, you now possess the knowledge and confidence to craft the very best Maggiano’s Lasagna right in the cozy comfort of your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a masterpiece. Happy cooking, and bon appétit! 🍽️❤️