Name: Ultimate Meat Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Yield: undefined
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs ground beef; 1 lb ground chicken; 2 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 9 oz box of gluten-free lasagna sheets; 36 oz marinara sauce; 1 egg; 16 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded; 8 oz parmesan cheese, shredded; 2 tbsp parsley; 15 oz ricotta cheese

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Layers of rich, meaty flavor with both ground beef and chicken.
Creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella for the ultimate cheesy bite.
Gluten-free pasta option that works beautifully without sacrificing taste.
Perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks or entertaining.
Comfort food at its finest, filling and satisfying every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1 lb ground chicken
2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
9 oz box of gluten-free lasagna sheets
36 oz marinara sauce
1 egg
16 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
8 oz parmesan cheese, shredded
2 tbsp parsley
15 oz ricotta cheese

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9x13x3-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Cook pasta according to package directions.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chicken until fully browned. Season with salt and pepper.
Drain excess oil, then stir marinara sauce into the meat. Simmer for a few minutes, then set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley until well blended.
In the baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce, then top with noodles.
Spread half the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then repeat layers twice more.
Finish with a top layer of noodles and mozzarella cheese.
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Remove from oven and let rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use Italian sausage instead of chicken for extra spice.
Swap gluten-free pasta with traditional lasagna noodles if preferred.
Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms between layers for added veggies.
Make it dairy-free by using plant-based ricotta and mozzarella.
Try a blend of marinara and Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooled lasagna in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until heated through, or microwave individual slices for 2–3 minutes.

FAQs

How do I keep my lasagna from being watery?

Drain the meat well after cooking and avoid overcooking the pasta before layering.

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Do I need to boil the noodles first?

Yes, this recipe uses cooked pasta sheets, so follow the package instructions before layering.

Can I use store-bought marinara?

Absolutely — just choose a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.

Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese can be used for a lighter texture, though the flavor will be slightly different.

How do I reheat lasagna without drying it out?

Cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply use a larger baking dish or prepare two pans for larger gatherings.

What’s the best cheese combination for lasagna?

Mozzarella for melt, parmesan for sharpness, and ricotta for creaminess are the classic trio.

Can I freeze unbaked lasagna?

Yes, assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.

Why does lasagna need to rest before serving?

Resting allows the layers to set, making slicing cleaner and keeping the filling from spilling out.

Conclusion

This ultimate meat lasagna brings together all the hallmarks of great Italian comfort food — hearty meat sauce, creamy ricotta, perfectly cooked pasta, and golden melted cheese. Whether served fresh from the oven or reheated for a quick dinner, it’s a dish that satisfies every time. Perfect for family meals, entertaining guests, or stocking the freezer for busy nights, this recipe will become a household favorite.