Name: Cheesy Christmas Lasagna for a Cozy Holiday Celebration
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground Beef (Can be substituted with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives.); 1 pound Italian Sausage (Use chicken sausage or vegetarian crumbles for a lighter version.); 1 large Onion (Finely diced.); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste; 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes; 15 ounces Tomato Sauce; 1 cup Red Wine (Can be substituted with beef or vegetable broth.); 2 teaspoons Italian Seasonings (Use a pre-mixed blend or individual herbs.); 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese (Can be substituted with pureed silken tofu.); 1 large Egg (Beaten.); ½ cup Parmesan/Romano Cheese (Can be replaced by nutritional yeast.); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Dairy-free substitute optional.); ¼ cup Parsley (Optional for garnish.); 9 sheets Lasagna Noodles (Par-cook to prevent breakage.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the smell of simmering meat sauce filled the air, instantly transporting me to festive gatherings of my childhood. This Cheesy Christmas Lasagna is more than just a meal; it’s a heartfelt dish that brings warmth and joy to any holiday table. With its layers of savory goodness, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, it’s the ultimate comfort food everyone will love. Plus, it’s wonderfully customizable, making it easy to accommodate dietary preferences—from ground turkey for a leaner option to plant-based substitutes for a meat-free feast. Imagine impressing your friends and family with a luscious lasagna that not only delights the taste buds but also embodies the spirit of togetherness. Are you ready to elevate your holiday cooking game with this festive twist on a classic dish?

Why is This Lasagna So Special?

Customizable for All: This cheesy Christmas lasagna adapts to various dietary needs, making it a hit for everyone at your table! Flavor Explosion: Layers of savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella create an irresistible combination. Heartwarming Tradition: This dish evokes nostalgic holiday memories, creating moments of togetherness. Easy-to-Follow: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress guests. Perfect for Meal Prep: Assemble in advance to save time on busy holiday days, just like with our Cheesy Mashed Potato Puff Bites for an effortless feast!

Cheesy Christmas Lasagna Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce
• Ground Beef – Provides richness and flavor to the meat sauce; substitute with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives for a leaner option.
• Italian Sausage – Adds depth and spice to the sauce; use chicken sausage or vegetarian crumbles for a lighter or meat-free version.
• Onion – Gives sweetness and enhances sauce flavor; best when finely diced for even cooking.
• Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor to the sauce; use fresh cloves for the best taste.
• Tomato Paste – Concentrates tomato flavor in the sauce; essential for richness.
• Crushed Tomatoes – Base of the sauce providing moisture and tangy flavor.
• Tomato Sauce – Complements crushed tomatoes for a well-rounded sauce.
• Red Wine – Adds depth to the sauce; substitute with beef or vegetable broth for an alcohol-free version.
• Italian Seasonings – Enhances the flavor profile; use a pre-mixed blend or individual herbs like oregano and thyme.

For the Cheese Mixture
• Parmesan/Romano Cheese – Provides sharp, savory flavor; can be replaced by nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Gives melty texture on top; opt for a dairy-free cheese substitute if needed.
• Ricotta Cheese – Adds creaminess to the filling; substitute with pureed silken tofu or cashew cream, flavored appropriately.
• Egg – Binds the cheese filling together; ensure it’s well-beaten before mixing.
• Parsley – Fresh herb to brighten the flavors; optional for garnish.

For the Lasagna Assembly
• Lasagna Noodles – The structure of the dish; par-cook to prevent breakage during assembly.

This Cheesy Christmas Lasagna is as straightforward to create as it is delightful to eat, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy a comforting slice of holiday happiness!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Christmas Lasagna

Step 1: Cook Meat Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of Italian sausage until cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Add finely diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, approximately 3-5 minutes. This savory combination forms the flavor base for your Cheesy Christmas Lasagna.

Step 2: Simmer Sauce
Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes, and 15 ounces of tomato sauce, mixing well. Pour in 1 cup of red wine and add your favorite Italian seasonings. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The rich aroma of the sauce will fill your kitchen, bringing the holiday spirit alive.

Step 3: Prepare Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese, 1 beaten egg, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth, ensuring homogeneity in texture. Refrigerate this mixture while the sauce simmers, as it will enhance the creaminess of your layers in the Cheesy Christmas Lasagna.

Step 4: Assemble Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Begin layering with cooked lasagna noodles, followed by the ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers, finishing with noodles topped by meat sauce and an extra layer of mozzarella to create a golden-brown finish.

Step 5: Bake
Cover the assembled lasagna tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil to add 1 cup more of shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden. The sight of this Cheesy Christmas Lasagna emerging from the oven will surely delight your holiday guests.

Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the lasagna to rest for 20 minutes. This resting period helps set the layers, making slicing easier. Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a festive touch. The moment you cut into this cheesy masterpiece, the layers will reveal all the deliciousness inside, perfect for sharing around the holiday table.

Expert Tips for Cheesy Christmas Lasagna

Rest Time: Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 20 minutes after baking; this helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Seasoning Adjustments: Taste the meat sauce before layering. It’s common to need a bit more salt or herbs to enhance flavor in your cheesy Christmas lasagna.

No Stick Strategy: To prevent sticking, place a layer of parchment paper under the foil while baking. This keeps the gooey cheese from catching.

Noodle Prep: Par-cook your lasagna noodles slightly—this prevents breakage and ensures they absorb just enough sauce during baking.

Layering Matters: For best results, alternate the meat sauce and cheese mixture consistently throughout the layers, ensuring a balanced flavor in every bite.

Cheesy Christmas Lasagna Variations

Feel free to make this cheesy Christmas lasagna your own with these delightful twists and swaps!

Ground Turkey: Substitute ground beef for ground turkey to create a lighter, yet still flavorful, meat sauce.
Gluten-Free Noodles: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to cater to those with gluten sensitivities while keeping the comfort factor.
Vegetable Medley: For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and load up on flavorful vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added texture and nutrients.

Imagine a burst of colors and flavors as you layer fresh veggies into your cheesy masterpiece. This not only makes the dish healthier but completes the festive look!
Dairy-Free Options: Replace ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream and plant-based cheeses for a vegan twist.
Add Heat: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meat sauce for a spicy kick that beautifully balances the creamy cheese.
Pesto Layer: Stir in a layer of basil pesto among the cheese mixtures for aromatic herb flavors that will tantalize your tastebuds.

Infusing your lasagna with fragrant pesto is a delicious way to elevate the classic flavor profile. Plus, the vibrant green looks appealing during the holidays!
Red Wine Alternatives: For a non-alcoholic version, swap red wine with beef or vegetable broth, adding a similar depth without the alcohol.

The rich flavors will still shine through, letting everyone enjoy this comfort dish worry-free—perfect for family gatherings with diverse preferences.

Try some of these exciting variations next time you whip up your cheesy Christmas lasagna, and let the love and warmth fill your holiday celebrations just like our cozy Cheesy Pizza Tot Casserole or heartwarming Cheesy Rotel Beef Dip!

Make Ahead Options

This Cheesy Christmas Lasagna is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor more time with loved ones during the busy holiday season! You can assemble the entire lasagna up to 24 hours in advance, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it to maintain freshness. For even longer storage, prepare the dish and freeze it for up to 3 months before baking. When ready to serve, bake directly from the fridge or freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. This way, you still enjoy that delightful, bubbling result with minimal last-minute effort!

What to Serve with Cheesy Christmas Lasagna

Elevate your holiday gathering by pairing this warm, cheesy delight with complementary sides and drinks that enhance the festive spirit.

Garlic Bread: A classic combination, its crispy exterior and buttery, garlicky flavor make every bite a delightful companion to the rich lasagna.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing add a fresh contrast, balancing the comfort of lasagna with refreshing crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots, caramelized to perfection, provide a sweet and savory element that rounds out the meal beautifully.
Antipasto Platter: A vibrant spread of olives, cheeses, and cured meats brings a festive touch, inviting guests to nibble while the lasagna bakes.
Sangria: This fruity, refreshing wine punch offers a bright complement to the rich flavors, creating a festive atmosphere with every sip.
Tiramisu: End the meal on a sweet note with this light, coffee-flavored dessert that contrasts the hearty lasagna while echoing Italian roots.

Imagine gathering around the table, laughter filling the air as everyone enjoys their own plate—these pairings truly enhance the holiday experience!

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Christmas Lasagna

Fridge: Store leftover cheesy Christmas lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the assembled lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Reheating: To reheat frozen lasagna, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour or until heated thoroughly. If previously thawed, reduce baking time to about 30-40 minutes.

Make-Ahead: You can assemble the cheesy Christmas lasagna a day in advance and keep it in the fridge before baking, making it a convenient option for holiday gatherings!

Cheesy Christmas Lasagna Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for this lasagna?
Absolutely! When choosing your meat, look for fresh ground beef with minimal visible fat for a richer flavor. For the sausage, opt for a brand that uses natural spices without fillers. Fresh garlic and onions are a must for that aromatic foundation. As for tomatoes, select a brand with no added sugars to keep that rich tomato flavor intact.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! Store any leftover cheesy Christmas lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply pop individual portions in the microwave or oven until they’re warmed through, about 10–15 minutes in the oven at 350°F (175°C), ensuring that it stays juicy and delicious!

Can I freeze this lasagna, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your cheesy Christmas lasagna, wrap the assembled dish tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This allows it to be enjoyed for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it as directed—baking from frozen? Allow about 60 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

What if my lasagna noodles break while assembling?
Oh, that can happen! If your noodles break, don’t panic. Simply overlap them where they break when layering, using the cheese and sauce to hold them together. Alternatively, consider using no-boil lasagna noodles next time, which are designed to withstand a little more handling!

Are there dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very much so! For those with dairy allergies, consider substituting the ricotta with pureed silken tofu or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free cheese for the mozzarella. If you need gluten-free options, just swap regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free ones. Always double-check labels, especially for pre-packaged items!

Can I prepare this lasagna in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the cheesy Christmas lasagna a day ahead of your holiday gathering. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This way, you’ll save time on that busy day and still serve a fabulous dish!