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Barefoot contessa lasagna copycat recipe

Barefoot Contessa Lasagna Recipe

Sharon Brown
Before diving into the joy of creating Barefoot Contessa lasagna, let’s consider what you might want to serve alongside this rich and hearty dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 ½ pounds 24 ounces Italian turkey sausage, sweet or hot, casings removed (or a mix of both)
  • 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion approximately 1 medium onion
  • 3 garlic cloves finely minced
  • 1 28- ounce can crushed tomatoes in puree
  • 1 6- ounce can tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar optional, for added depth in the tomato sauce
  • ¼ cup freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley divided
  • ½ cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for subtle heat
  • ½ pound lasagna noodles
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese use whole milk for creamier texture
  • 4 ounces creamy goat cheese
  • 1 extra-large egg lightly whisked
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 pound fresh mozzarella thinly sliced
  • cup shaved Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions
 

  • Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then incorporate the minced garlic and cook for just a minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  • Next, add the turkey sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, stirring frequently. Once the meat is fully cooked, drain any excess fat. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and balsamic vinegar.
  • Add salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes as desired. Lastly, mix in half of the chopped parsley and basil. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 20 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally.
  • While your sauce simmers, combine the ricotta cheese, goat cheese, whisked egg, and the remaining parsley in a bowl. Season this mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it well until everything is evenly mixed, ensuring a creamy consistency.
  • Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean surface or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom. Next, on the noodles, spread a layer of the ricotta mixture, followed by layers of mozzarella and more sauce. Repeat these layers, creating a total of 3 layers, finishing with mozzarella on top and sprinkling shaved Parmesan for an extra touch.
  • Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it does not touch the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.
  • This step is crucial! Once out of the oven, let the lasagna sit for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes for easier serving.

Notes

  • Meat Variations: Substitute the turkey sausage with Italian chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Option: Leave out the meat entirely and load up on veggies like spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms for a hearty alternative.
  • No Boil Noodles: Use no-boil lasagna sheets for a quicker prep time. Just layer them as usual; they’ll cook beautifully in the oven.
  • Herb Freshness: If fresh herbs aren’t an option, dried herbs can work too; however, use them in moderation as they are more concentrated.
  • Storage: Lasagna freezes well. Consider making it ahead and freezing uncooked or baked portions for future meals.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 22gFiber: 3g
Keyword Barefoot contessa lasagna recipe
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