All Things Lasagna

My family recipe, common mistakes + how to fix them, and hacks to take your lasagna game to the next level

I know lasagna is technically Italian American, but I feel like it's become as American as a hamburger. I get asked about lasagna constantly, so here are the answers to your most burning questions in one place…

Lasagna Q&A: The Answers You Actually Need

#1 How do I cut it neatly?

Unless you do individual portions in little crocks, the only way to make neat cuts is to bake and fully cool lasagna. Cut when cold (with a sharp knife). You can also partially defrost lasagna and cut it into pieces while it's still somewhat frozen.

#2 How do I reheat lasagna without drying it out?

If you have extra sauce, a couple of ladles of sauce added to the lasagna helps with the reheat. Otherwise, I put a quarter cup of water around the edges of the lasagna dish. Cover with foil and reheat 45 minutes at 350°F. Remove the foil, add additional grated cheese on top if you like, and heat until the top is crunchy and broiled, 10 to 15 additional minutes.

#3 How do I freeze it properly?

Fully assemble, bake and cool your lasagna. Once cool to the touch, wrap the whole dish tightly in 2 layers of plastic. Anything dairy absorbs a lot of odors in the fridge… Label with a date so you know how long it has been in the freezer and freeze. I generally don't keep a lasagna in the freezer more than 4 to 6 weeks for best results.

#4 How do I serve it?

I love to put the bubbling dish of lasagna right on the table. It tastes better after it sits overnight and is reheated. The tomato and cheese just melt together more. I like to make it the day before and fully cool it in the fridge. While it is still cold, I use a sharp knife to cut the lasagna into the desired size pieces. Then, I reheat it when I'm ready. Put the dish right on the table and lift out that first corner piece. Pre-cutting helps a lot!

#5 What if the cheesy top is not cheesy enough?

You can peel off the top layer and literally re-broil a fully new layer of cheese. You can also fill in any gaps where there isn't enough cheese on top and broil it so that it evens out.

#6 If I want to add a little something extra, what should it be?

Sprinkling fresh basil leaves over top or even drizzling basil pesto can really add a great touch. Calabrian olive chili paste has become all the rage and it's very simple to spoon some of it over your lasagna to make it spicy!

Common Lasagna Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

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