Step 1

Prep the Meat Sauce: Start by browning the ground beef over medium heat in a large skillet. Once it's no longer pink, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Mix in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning, then remove from heat. This will be the robust base of your lasagna layers.

Step 2

Combine the Cheeses: In a separate bowl, blend the ricotta cheese, egg, 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella, and the Parmesan cheese until you have a creamy, cheesy mixture that will add a rich and decadent layer to your lasagna.

Step 3

Assemble the Lasagna: Grab a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking and starts your lasagna off. Place a layer of no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce. Don't worry about gaps; they will fill in as the noodles expand. Spread a portion of the cheese mixture over the noodles, then repeat the layers – sauce, noodles, cheese – until you've used up all the ingredients. Aim to finish with a layer of meat sauce on top, ensuring the noodles are covered to prevent them from drying out.

Step 4

Chill Overnight: Cover the assembled lasagna with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight. This step is crucial as it allows the noodles to absorb the sauce, ensuring they cook perfectly in the oven.

Step 5

Preheat and Bake: When you're ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the lasagna from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature while the oven heats up. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and remaining mozzarella over the top for a gooey, golden crust, and scatter a little extra chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour. The foil is important, it keeps the moisture in and prevents the cheese from burning.

Step 6

Final Touch: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to get that crispy cheese topping. Make sure to keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't over-brown.

Step 7

Serve: Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This little break lets it set up, making slicing easier. Cut into hearty squares and serve with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of love.