Christmas Eve Lasagna Bake

This Christmas Eve lasagna is a classic recipe that brings warmth and comfort to the holiday table. It’s my go to when I want something hearty and festive that feeds a crowd without too much fuss.

I first made this when hosting family for Christmas and it quickly became a tradition. Everyone loves the rich sauce and cheesy goodness in every bite.

Ingredients

• Lasagna noodles: provide structure so be sure to cook them just until pliable not mushy
• Ricotta cheese: adds creaminess opt for whole milk ricotta for richer flavor
• Shredded mozzarella: melts beautifully choose part-skim for that perfect gooey texture
• Parmesan cheese: brings a nutty sharpness freshly grated is best here
• Ground beef or Italian sausage: gives the sauce depth pick quality meats without additives
• Canned diced tomatoes: form the sauce base look for brands with no added sugar or salt
• Fresh basil and oregano: add herbal brightness pick leaves that are vibrant and fragrant
• Salt and pepper: season everything adjusting to taste is key

Instructions

Build The Meat Sauce:

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage stirring often. Drain off excess fat to avoid greasiness. Add canned diced tomatoes, fresh basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently uncovered for 15 minutes allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.

Mix The Cheese Filling:

Combine ricotta cheese with half of the grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy. This ensures every bite has that rich cheesy texture.

Layer The Lasagna:

Lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking. Begin with a layer of meat sauce spread evenly across the bottom. Add a single layer of cooked noodles covering the sauce. Dollop half the ricotta mixture over noodles and spread gently. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Repeat the sequence finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella on top for a golden crust.

Bake To Perfection:

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven set at 375°F for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 15 to 20 minutes so the cheese bubbles and browns beautifully.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow lasagna to cool for about 10 minutes after baking so it sets up and slices neatly.

Mozzarella is my favorite cheese here because it melts smoothly and creates those irresistible stretch strings. One Christmas Eve my family gathered around the table sharing stories and passing slices of this lasagna—those moments still warm my heart every year.

Storage Tips

Store leftover lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain texture without drying out. This dish also freezes well: wrap portions tightly in foil or airtight containers for up to three months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Ingredient Swaps

Try ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef or sausage. Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter version though texture will vary slightly. Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach in the meat sauce for extra vegetables and flavor.

Serve With

A crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon juice balances the richness. Garlic bread or toasted baguette complement the hearty layers perfectly. A simple roasted vegetable side rounds out the meal beautifully.

This Christmas Eve lasagna is a heartwarming holiday staple that brings family together with every slice.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of meat works best in this dish?

Ground beef or Italian sausage both add rich flavor and a hearty texture, complementing the tomato and herb sauce perfectly.

→ Can fresh herbs be substituted with dried ones?

Yes, dried basil and oregano can be used but reduce the amount by half to prevent overpowering the sauce.

→ How should the layering be done for best results?

Start with the meat sauce as a base, followed by noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and repeat until finished with mozzarella on top.

→ Is it necessary to let the dish rest before serving?

Allowing it to cool briefly helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and enhancing the overall texture.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the layers in advance and refrigerate before baking; just add extra baking time if baking straight from cold.