If you’re a fan of lasagna and have ever dreamed of a dish that combines all of the rich, comforting flavors of this beloved classic in an elegant new form, the Olive Garden Lasagna Cake is the recipe you’ve been waiting for.
This inventive twist on traditional lasagna combines the hearty layers of pasta, savory meat, and rich cheeses, but instead of a regular rectangular baking dish, it’s transformed into a stacked “cake” that makes it both a visual showstopper and a delicious meal.
Perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or just when you want to treat yourself, the lasagna cake delivers everything you love about lasagna – the gooey cheese, flavorful sauce, and tender pasta – but with a fun and modern presentation.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish promises to be both a crowd-pleaser and a conversation starter.
What Is an Olive Garden Lasagna Cake?
The Olive Garden Lasagna Cake is a creative reinvention of the classic Italian lasagna, where the layers of pasta, meat, sauce, and cheese are stacked high in a cake pan to form a beautifully layered and compact dish.
Inspired by the delicious flavors you’d find at Olive Garden, this lasagna cake captures all of the elements that make lasagna so beloved, but it serves it in a whole new way that’s both fun and visually appealing.
While traditional lasagna is often baked in a large, rectangular pan with horizontal layers, the lasagna cake creates vertical layers, similar to a multi-layered cake.
The result is a beautiful, round cake that looks impressive when sliced and served. Each slice reveals the perfectly layered structure of pasta, meat sauce, and gooey cheese. It’s like having a lasagna in cake form – and who wouldn’t want to try that?
This dish is ideal for those who enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of lasagna but want to try something a bit more elegant or festive. Whether it’s for a dinner party or a casual family meal, this lasagna cake will not only satisfy your hunger but will also elevate your dinner experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the Olive Garden Lasagna Cake, you’ll need a variety of ingredients to create the delicious layers of pasta, savory sauce, and creamy cheese.
Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to get started:
- Ground Beef or Sausage – You can use a combination of ground beef and sausage for a flavorful base, or opt for one depending on your preference.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing the meat and adding a rich flavor to the sauce.
- Tomato Sauce – The heart of the lasagna’s sauce. A rich, savory tomato sauce will form the base of the cake’s flavor.
- Tomato Paste – To thicken and intensify the sauce.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic cloves will infuse the sauce with aromatic flavor.
- Dried Herbs – Oregano, basil, and thyme will bring an authentic Italian flavor to the dish.
- Ricotta Cheese – The creamy and mild ricotta forms a thick, smooth layer between the pasta sheets.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Shredded mozzarella for that signature melty, gooey texture.
- Parmesan Cheese – Aged Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor to the lasagna.
- Eggs – Eggs help bind the ricotta and other cheeses together for a smooth filling.
- Lasagna Noodles – Regular lasagna noodles, boiled and drained, are layered to form the structure of the cake.
- Salt and Pepper – For seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- Fresh Basil (Optional) – Garnish the lasagna cake with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and color.
These ingredients combine to create the deep, savory flavor and satisfying texture that makes the Olive Garden Lasagna Cake so irresistible.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Olive Garden Lasagna Cake
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s break down the steps to create the Olive Garden Lasagna Cake.
Follow these instructions closely to ensure your dish turns out perfectly layered and delicious.
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by heating a large pan over medium heat and adding a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef or sausage. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
Next, add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté it for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute. Then, pour in the tomato sauce, and season with dried oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken. Set the sauce aside while you prepare the other layers.
Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes, until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a sheet of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna Cake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with cooking spray or a light coat of olive oil.
Now, it’s time to start layering! Begin with a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of the pan. Then, add a layer of lasagna noodles, cutting them to fit in the round shape of the pan. Top the noodles with a generous layer of ricotta cheese, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Repeat the layers, alternating between sauce, noodles, and cheese, until you’ve built up about 4–5 layers, or until you run out of ingredients. Make sure to end with a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna Cake
Cover the assembled lasagna cake with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly and slightly browned.
Step 5: Let It Set
Once baked, remove the lasagna cake from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to slice.
Use High-Quality Ingredients
Since the flavors of the lasagna are so concentrated, using fresh, high-quality ingredients can make a significant difference. Choose a good brand of tomato sauce and paste, opt for freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan, and select meat that’s rich in flavor (whether it’s beef, sausage, or both).
Make Sure Your Noodles Are Al Dente
Undercook your lasagna noodles slightly when boiling, so they don’t become too soft and mushy in the cake. Lasagna noodles should be al dente (firm to the bite) to help hold the layers together when baked.
Drain and Dry the Noodles
After boiling the noodles, lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. This also removes excess moisture, which can cause the lasagna cake to become soggy.
Let the Lasagna Rest Before Cutting
Once the lasagna cake comes out of the oven, allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers firm up and makes it easier to cut clean slices without the filling spilling out.
Layer Evenly and Don’t Overfill
When layering, make sure each layer is even and doesn’t spill over. Adding too much sauce or cheese in any one layer can cause the lasagna to collapse or not bake properly. Balance is key for both flavor and texture.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
The Olive Garden Lasagna Cake is a hearty and filling dish on its own, but it pairs beautifully with several side dishes that complement its rich flavors.
Here are some ideas for serving it up:
Garlic Bread or Breadsticks
Nothing beats the classic pairing of lasagna with a side of crispy garlic bread or Olive Garden-inspired breadsticks. The crunchy bread works perfectly to soak up the sauce from the lasagna cake while adding a nice contrast to the dish’s richness.
Fresh Garden Salad
A light, crisp salad is the perfect way to balance the richness of the lasagna. Opt for a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or go for a Caesar salad for a more indulgent option. The greens will provide a refreshing contrast to the heavy, cheesy lasagna.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus, bring a savory and slightly smoky element to your meal, offering a great complement to the richness of the lasagna cake. Plus, they add color and texture to your plate.
Red Wine or Iced Tea
Pair your lasagna cake with a glass of bold red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Chianti, to complement the savory flavors of the meat sauce and cheese. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with lemon works wonderfully.
These side dishes and drinks will elevate the meal and add variety to the plate, creating a satisfying and well-rounded dining experience.
Conclusion
The Olive Garden Lasagna Cake is a stunning, flavorful twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to delight your guests and family alike.
By stacking the layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese into a cake-like structure, this dish offers a fresh presentation while preserving the rich, comforting flavors you love in traditional lasagna.
Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this recipe combines both beauty and taste in one delicious, satisfying meal.
With easy-to-follow instructions, a few helpful tips, and some suggested pairings, you’ll be able to create a memorable dish that will quickly become a new favorite. Don’t forget to share your results and any tweaks you made to the recipe – there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make the Olive Garden Lasagna Cake ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the lasagna cake a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time if needed.
- Can I freeze the lasagna cake for later? Absolutely. If you’d like to freeze it, prepare the lasagna cake as directed but skip the final baking step. Instead, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as usual.
- Can I use gluten-free noodles for this recipe? Yes, gluten-free lasagna noodles work perfectly in this recipe! Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results, as gluten-free noodles may need a little extra care during the boiling process.
- What can I substitute for ricotta cheese? If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you can substitute it with cottage cheese, mascarpone, or even cream cheese for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just ensure the consistency is smooth to maintain the cake’s layers.
- How do I store leftovers? Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, you can use the oven (covered with foil) or microwave for quick and easy servings.
Olive Garden Lasagna Cake
Equipment
- 1 9-inch round cake pan
- 1 Large skillet
- 1 large pot for boiling noodles
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 slotted spoon (for draining meat)
- 1 large spoon for layering
- Aluminum foil
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Parchment paper or kitchen towel (for drying noodles)
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef or Sausage
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil for sautéing
- 1 can 15 oz Tomato Sauce
- 1 can 6 oz Tomato Paste
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano
- 1 tsp Dried Basil
- 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme
- 1/2 tsp Salt to taste
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper to taste
- 12 Lasagna Noodles boiled and drained
- 1 1/2 cups Ricotta Cheese
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 2 Large Eggs
- Fresh Basil optional, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Stir in the tomato paste, cooking it for an additional minute. Add the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cook the Noodles:
- While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on parchment paper or a clean kitchen towel to avoid sticking.
Assemble the Lasagna Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with cooking spray or olive oil. Start by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the pan. Add a layer of lasagna noodles, trimming them to fit the pan. Top with a layer of ricotta cheese, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat the layers, finishing with a top layer of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake the Lasagna Cake:
- Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly browned.
Let It Set:
- Remove the lasagna cake from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers firm up and makes for easier serving.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil (if desired), slice, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, you can swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based ground meat.
- You can make this dish a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if the cake is cold from the fridge.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or incorporating sautéed onions and bell peppers into the meat sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
