This Copycat Olive Garden Lasagna Recipe tastes just like the one at the restaurant! It has layers of soft lasagna noodles, tasty meat sauce, and four cheeses. These ingredients create a warm, filling, and very yummy meal. Make it for your next family meal, and they’ll want more!
I really love Olive Garden’s lasagna, especially the Classico. It’s my top pick for date nights with my husband, Chad. Making copycat meals from restaurants I like is a big hobby of mine. So, I’m thrilled to show you how to make this lasagna at home.
Key Takeaways
- This Olive Garden Lasagna Classico recipe is a spot-on copycat of the restaurant’s signature dish.
- It features layers of tender lasagna noodles, a rich and flavorful meat sauce, and a blend of four delicious cheeses.
- The recipe is easy to follow and yields a comforting, hearty, and incredibly delicious lasagna that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
- With a total recipe time of just 1 hour and 20 minutes, this Olive Garden lasagna is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- The recipe includes detailed instructions for making the perfect meat sauce and assembling the lasagna layers for maximum flavor and texture.
Recreating the Irresistible Olive Garden Lasagna Recipe
Introduction to the Classic Olive Garden Lasagna
Lasagna has always been a top pick for comfort food. The Olive Garden’s Classico version is one of the best. It includes layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese. Whether it’s a quiet evening or a big gathering, making this lasagna will surely impress.
The Olive Garden lasagna’s charm is in its sauce, made with ground beef and Italian sausage. It’s also packed with three cheeses – ricotta, Parmesan, and Pecorino Romano. You can whip it up in 30 minutes, then it bakes quickly. The taste? Just like the Olive Garden, but made by you at home.
Excited to learn how to make the top Olive Garden-style lasagna for your family? Let’s get started!
Unveiling the Secrets of Olive Garden’s Lasagna Classico
The Olive Garden Lasagna Classico is a favorite, loved by pasta fans everywhere. It features layers of soft lasagna noodles, a tasty meat sauce, and four cheeses. Recreating it is easier than you think. We’ll show you how to make Olive Garden’s famous lasagna.
The key to its taste is the careful choice of ingredients. The meat sauce, made with beef and sausage, is full of flavor. A mix of ricotta, Parmesan, and Romano cheeses adds creaminess and depth.
This recipe uses no-boil lasagna noodles. They soak up the sauce and cheese flavors. This makes the dish as tasty as the Olive Garden’s, with pasta that’s tender.
“The Olive Garden Lasagna Classico is a true culinary masterpiece, and with this copycat recipe, you can bring that same level of indulgence right to your own kitchen.” – Olivia, Home Cook
This copycat recipe is perfect for fans of Olive Garden or anyone wanting a hearty Italian meal. With seasoned meat sauce and a creamy cheese blend, it’s sure to impress. Your family and friends will love this lasagna.
Mastering the Art of Layering Cooked Lasagna Noodles
Making the perfect Olive Garden-style lasagna comes down to layering it right. Follow these steps closely. You’ll craft a lasagna that’s just as comforting and delicious as the restaurant’s.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building the Perfect Lasagna
- Start by adding a thin layer of tasty meat sauce on the dish’s bottom.
- Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles on top, making sure they’re spread evenly.
- Add ricotta mix and a lot of mozzarella cheese. Repeat this two more times.
- Keep layering until you finish with noodles, sauce, and mozzarella cheese on top.
Following this order is how you get those perfect lasagna layers. It makes each forkful a rich, cheesy pleasure. And the mix of flavors is spot on, so it tastes like you’re in the Olive Garden itself.
Ingredients for the Layers
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Lasagna noodles | 12-16 sheets, cooked al dente |
| Ricotta cheese | 15 oz container |
| Mozzarella cheese | 16 oz, shredded |
| Olive Garden Lasagna Classico meat sauce | 4 cups |
By sticking to these steps, you’ll make a lasagna that’s truly special. It’ll be loved by your family and friends. This recipe will shine just like theirs.
Preparing the Olive Garden Lasagna Noodles
Crafting the perfect Olive Garden Lasagna starts with preparing the noodles right. The classic Olive Garden Lasagna Classico is a cheesy, hearty meal. It relies heavily on the lasagna noodles.
Cook the lasagna noodles just until they’re al dente, following the package. If the noodles are overcooked, your dish may turn out mushy. So, getting the timing right is very important.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the lasagna noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes until they’re tender but still firm.
- Drain the noodles and lay them out to cool on a baking sheet or parchment paper.
By following these simple steps, you ensure the Olive Garden Lasagna Classico noodles are perfect. They’ll be ready for layering in your cooking. With the noodles prepared, you’re well on your way to cooking the delicious Olive Garden Lasagna at home.
Ingredients and Cooking Instructions
Recreating Olive Garden’s lasagna is easier than you think. This Lasagna Classico mix uses ground beef and Italian sausage. It also has crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, fresh basil, and dried oregano. For the cheeses, use ricotta, Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, and mozzarella.
- Start by boiling the noodles until they are soft but still firm.
- Brown the meats in a big pot until they’re cooked through. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until soft.
- Make the meat sauce by adding tomatoes, paste, basil, and oregano to the pot. Let it simmer for 30 minutes. This makes the flavor delicious.
Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Italian sausage | 1 pound |
| Onion, diced | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Crushed tomatoes | 1 can |
| Tomato paste | 1 can |
| Dried basil | 2 teaspoons |
| Dried oregano | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Lasagna noodles | 12 |
| Ricotta cheese | 15 ounces |
| Egg | 1 |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/4 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 3 cups |
Assembling the Lasagna
- Start with meat sauce at the bottom of the dish.
- Add noodles, then the ricotta mix.
- Top with mozzarella.
- Repeat these steps, ending with meat sauce and extra mozzarella.
Bake your lasagna at 375°F for about 30-45 minutes, until golden and bubbly. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This makes slicing and serving easier. Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden lasagna!
Achieving the Perfect Meat Sauce
To make Olive Garden lasagna taste great, you must get the meat sauce right. First, cook ground beef and Italian sausage until they are nicely browned. This searing step adds tons of flavor.
Add onions and garlic next. Sauté them until they smell great. This also adds delicious flavors to your sauce.
- Mix in a lot of crushed tomatoes.
- Add tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Let this mix simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The more time you simmer the sauce, the better it tastes. Soon, it will be the perfect match for your lasagna’s layers. With lasagna noodles and a mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, you get a dish fit for Olive Garden.
Additional Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb |
| Italian Sausage | 1 lb |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Crushed Tomatoes | 28 oz can |
| Tomato Paste | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh Basil, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Dried Oregano | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 tsp |
The Art of Simmering the Sauce
Simmer the meat sauce for 20 minutes in this Olive Garden lasagna recipe. This lets the beef, sausage, and spices blend, making a rich sauce. Remember to stir it now and then for full flavor. The longer it simmers, the better it will taste.
Unlocking Robust Flavors
The Olive Garden lasagna gets its amazing taste from slow simmering. As it cooks, the tomatoes sweeten, adding richness, and the herbs make it fragrant. This process makes the sauce flavorful and deep.
- To get the sauce just right, simmer it for 20 minutes, stirring sometimes.
- For the best taste, simmer it for up to an hour. This makes the sauce even more delicious.
So, more time simmering means tastier lasagna. Be patient, as this makes a great base for your meal. It’s a small wait for a big taste outcome.
Assembling the Ultimate Lasagna
Making the best Olive Garden Lasagna Classico takes time and care. The way we put it together matters a lot. It ensures that each mouthful has the right mix of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese.
- Start by layering meat sauce at the dish bottom. This gives a strong base.
- Then, add a layer of cooked lasagna noodles. Make them overlap slightly so they fit all the way.
- Now, it’s ricotta cheese mixture time. Carefully spread it over the noodles. Make sure to cover everything. After that, top with plenty of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat these layers twice more. So, three layers of noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella. Finish with meat sauce and mozzarella on top. This step makes a great lasagna stack.
Doing this layer by layer brings together a hearty and cheesy dish. It brings out all the flavors in the Olive Garden Lasagna Classico. Making sure each layer is spread out right means every bite is perfect.
Ingredient Quantities
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked Lasagna Noodles | 12-15 noodles |
| Ricotta Cheese Mixture | 3 cups |
| Shredded Mozzarella Cheese | 4 cups |
| Meat Sauce | 4 cups |
The Olive Garden Lasagna Classico is now stacked up just right. It’s ready for the oven. Next, we’ll dive into how to bake this beauty perfectly!
Baking to Perfection
The final step in making Olive Garden Lasagna Classico perfect is baking. Getting a golden, bubbly top lays the foundation for an amazing lasagna dish.
Tips for a Golden and Bubbly Lasagna
- To make the lasagna, start by layering it. Then, cover the dish with foil. Bake it at 375°F for 25 minutes. This step is essential for blending the flavors.
- Next, take off the foil and bake for another 25 minutes. Be sure to watch for when the cheese turns golden and bubbles. Don’t let it bake too much or it will dry out.
- When your lasagna looks perfect, let it sit for 10 minutes. This time helps the layers firm up, making it easier to cut. It shows off the lasagna noodles, meat sauce, and cheese mixture just right.
Baking Tips and Benefits
| Baking Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Cover the lasagna with foil for the first 25 minutes | Helps the layers come together and the flavors to meld |
| Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes | Allows the cheese to become golden, bubbly, and perfectly melted |
| Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing | Ensures the layers hold their shape for clean, neat servings |
Follow these tips for a great copycat Olive Garden Lasagna Classico recipe. Your loved ones will want more of the delicious, perfectly cooked lasagna.
Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments
Make a delicious Italian meal with the Olive Garden Lasagna Classico. Serve it with a garden salad and breadsticks like Olive Garden does. These choices bring a classic Italian restaurant feel. You can also add healthy sautéed veggies such as zucchini or eggplant.
A good wine adds to the meal. Choose a bold red, like Chianti or Merlot. Their flavors mix well with the lasagna’s cheese, meat sauce, and tomatoes.
Side Dish Recommendations
Quick side dishes work best with the Olive Garden Lasagna Classico. Here are some to try:
- Marinated Produce Salad
- Kale Caesar Salad
- Roasted Carrots with Honey and Thyme
- Cheesy Brussels Sprouts
- Homemade Garlic Knots
If you need vegan or vegetarian options, consider:
- Easy Stovetop Brussels Sprouts
- Vegan Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
- Marinated Roasted Bell Peppers
Prepare many of these side dishes ahead of time. They can also cook while the lasagna is baking. This makes your meal time more relaxed. Choose sides that add flavor, look good, and cater to different diets.
Side Dish Prep and Cooking Times
| Side Dish | Prep Time | Cooking Time | Dietary Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated Produce Salad | 10 minutes | N/A | Vegetarian, Gluten-free |
| Kale Caesar Salad | 15 minutes | N/A | Vegetarian |
| Roasted Carrots with Honey and Thyme | 5 minutes | 25 minutes | Vegetarian, Gluten-free |
| Cheesy Brussels Sprouts | 10 minutes | 20 minutes | Vegetarian |
| Homemade Garlic Knots | 20 minutes | 15 minutes | N/A |
| Easy Stovetop Brussels Sprouts | 10 minutes | 15 minutes | Vegan, Gluten-free |
| Vegan Mediterranean Chickpea Salad | 15 minutes | N/A | Vegan, Gluten-free |
| Marinated Roasted Bell Peppers | 10 minutes | 25 minutes | Vegan, Gluten-free |
A mix of colorful, tasty, and dietary-friendly sides completes the meal. Your Olive Garden Lasagna Classico will be a big hit with guests.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Making a Olive Garden Lasagna Classico gives you tasty leftovers to enjoy later. How you store and reheat the lasagna affects its flavor and texture. It’s key to keep it delicious.
Maximizing Flavor and Freshness
Store your Olive Garden Lasagna Classico leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, here are a couple of simple options:
- For individual servings, the microwave works well. Heat it in 30-second spurts until it’s warm.
- For bigger portions, use your oven. Set it to 325°F, cover the lasagna with foil, and bake for 20-30 minutes.
- If your lasagna is frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
However you reheat it, keeping the Olive Garden lasagna’s great taste is what matters. By storing and heating it right, your leftovers will be as good as new.
“Reheating lasagna in the oven at 350ËšF for about 30 minutes ensures it is hot all the way through and the sauce bubbles at the edges.”
Taking This Delectable Italian Dish To Go!
This Olive Garden Lasagna Classico recipe is a great way to enjoy the restaurant’s flavors at home. It’s filled with a juicy, meaty sauce and cheesy layers. Making it offers a fun adventure in the kitchen.
With this simple recipe, making Olive Garden’s delicious lasagna is easy. Just follow the steps for a great taste. It’s perfect for a family meal or any celebration. Everyone will love it.
Now, gather your ingredients and prep the oven for an amazing dish. This recipe lets you enjoy Olive Garden’s lasagna without leaving home. It’s your ticket to a tasty meal anytime, any place.
FAQs for This Olive Garden Copycat Recipe
What makes this Olive Garden Lasagna Classico recipe so special?
This Olive Garden Lasagna Classico recipe is a fan favorite. It has layers of soft lasagna noodles, meaty sauce, and a mix of four cheeses. This makes it a cozy, filling, and tasty dish, just like what you’d get at the restaurant.
How long does it take to make this Olive Garden Lasagna Classico?
It only takes about 30 minutes to prepare this lasagna. Then, you need less than an hour in the oven. It’s perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner any night of the week.
What are the key ingredients in this Olive Garden Lasagna Classico recipe?
The star ingredients are a meat sauce with beef and sausage, and a mix of ricotta, Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, and mozzarella cheeses. Don’t forget the lasagna noodles, they’re essential for this classic dish.
How do you properly cook the lasagna noodles for this recipe?
Cook the lasagna noodles just right to avoid a mushy mess. Make them al dente following the box. This step is crucial for a perfect texture.
How do you assemble the layers of the Olive Garden Lasagna Classico?
To build this lasagna, spread some meat sauce first, then a noodle layer. After, add ricotta, mozzarella, and sauce. Repeat this layering. The top should have a sauce and cheese layer.
What’s the secret to the rich, flavorful meat sauce in this Olive Garden Lasagna Classico recipe?
The sauce becomes irresistibly good by simmering for 20 minutes. This melds the beef, sausage, tomatoes, herbs, and spices. The result is a sauce that makes the entire dish shine.
How can you tell when the Olive Garden Lasagna Classico is baked to perfection?
Bake the lasagna covered for 25 minutes, then uncovered for another 25 minutes. It’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden. Watch it closely at the end to avoid drying it out.
What are some good serving suggestions for the Olive Garden Lasagna Classico?
This dish goes well with a salad and breadsticks for an authentic meal. Add sautéed veggies or asparagus. And a rich red wine like Chianti or Merlot will make it a feast.
How can you store and reheat leftover Olive Garden Lasagna Classico?
Keep any leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or bake at 325°F for 20-30 minutes. If it was frozen, thaw in the fridge first.
The Best Olive Garden Lasagna Copycat Recipe You Ever Did See!
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage casings removed
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 cans 6 oz each tomato paste
- 2 cans 15 oz each tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Assembly
- 12 lasagna noodles cooked according to package directions
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Stir in sugar, basil, parsley, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and set aside.
Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1 cup of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place 4 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread 1/3 of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat layers two more times, ending with a final layer of meat sauce and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Bake:
- Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray).
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna cool for about 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles if necessary.
