Olive Garden Lasagna Recipe: Make It at Home!

Olive Garden’s Lasagna is a beloved comfort food, known for its layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta.

Whether you’ve enjoyed it at the restaurant or are simply craving a hearty meal, making this classic dish at home brings all the flavors you love straight to your table. This Olive Garden Lasagna recipe is a perfect copycat version that mirrors the original’s delicious, indulgent layers.

The beauty of lasagna is in its versatility and heartiness, making it a great choice for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. With simple ingredients and a few steps, you can recreate this restaurant favorite without stepping foot in the door.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every detail, so you can make the perfect Olive Garden-style lasagna right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Olive Garden Lasagna

To get the signature flavors of Olive Garden’s lasagna, you’ll need a mix of quality ingredients. This recipe combines ground beef, cheeses, and marinara sauce to deliver that creamy, savory indulgence we all know and love.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

For the Meat Sauce:

• Ground Beef – The heart of your lasagna sauce, this gives the dish its rich, savory base. You can also mix in ground Italian sausage for additional flavor, if desired.
• Marinara Sauce – The perfect complement to the beef, this forms the bulk of the sauce. Use a good-quality jarred sauce or make your own if you prefer a homemade touch.
• Onion and Garlic – These aromatics form the flavor foundation of your sauce. They bring a touch of sweetness and depth.
• Tomato Paste – A small amount helps thicken the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• Seasonings – Classic Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme make this sauce pop with flavor.

For the Cheese Filling:

• Ricotta Cheese – The creamy base of your cheese layer. It gives the lasagna that smooth, soft texture that balances out the richness of the meat sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Both for the filling and topping, mozzarella adds a wonderful stretchiness and gooey texture.
• Parmesan Cheese – A sharp, nutty flavor that contrasts the richness of the other cheeses and elevates the overall taste.
• Eggs – These help bind the cheese filling together and create a firmer, smoother texture.
• Fresh Parsley – Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the cheese filling, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

For the Noodles:

• Lasagna Noodles – Traditional, wide pasta noodles work best for this dish. You can choose between no-boil noodles or regular lasagna noodles (if you use regular, be sure to cook them before assembling).

These ingredients, combined in the right proportions, will recreate the savory, cheesy goodness that Olive Garden’s lasagna is famous for. Ready to get cooking? Let’s move on to the next step: preparing the sauce!

How to Make Olive Garden Lasagna: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Olive Garden’s lasagna at home is a rewarding process. By following these simple steps, you’ll have a rich, cheesy, and perfectly layered dish just like the one you enjoy at the restaurant.

Let’s dive into the detailed instructions for creating the best lasagna.

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef (and sausage, if using) and cook it until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. This step ensures your sauce has a hearty texture and deep flavor.

Once the meat is browned, remove any excess fat, then add chopped onions and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Next, add your marinara sauce, tomato paste, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, thyme), and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld together and gives the sauce a rich, savory depth.

2. Mix the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir in 1 egg, fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper to season the cheese mixture. This creamy filling will add texture and flavor between the layers of pasta and sauce. Make sure everything is well combined for an even consistency throughout.

3. Boil and Layer the Lasagna Noodles

If you’re using traditional lasagna noodles (not no-boil), cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Be sure not to overcook them, as they’ll continue to soften while baking. Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to prevent them from sticking together. Lay the noodles flat on a large sheet of parchment or wax paper until you’re ready to assemble.

4. Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Now comes the fun part—layering!

Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This helps prevent the lasagna from sticking to the dish.

Next, lay down a layer of lasagna noodles, ensuring they slightly overlap. Then spread a generous layer of the cheese filling over the noodles, followed by another layer of sauce. Repeat this process—noodles, cheese filling, sauce—until you have used up all the ingredients, making sure to end with a layer of sauce on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the final sauce layer for a cheesy, golden crust.

5. Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure the foil doesn’t touch the cheese. Bake the lasagna for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut neat portions.

Tips for the Best Olive Garden Lasagna

To ensure your lasagna turns out just like Olive Garden’s version, here are some tried-and-true tips that will elevate your dish:

1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients makes a huge difference in the flavor of your lasagna. Opt for fresh mozzarella, high-quality ricotta, and a flavorful marinara sauce. If you can, make your own marinara sauce for a more personalized touch.

2. Don’t Overcook the Noodles

Whether you’re using regular or no-boil noodles, avoid overcooking them. They’ll soften further as they bake, so you want them to be just firm enough to hold up to the layers of sauce and cheese.

3. Let It Rest Before Cutting

Once you remove the lasagna from the oven, allow it to sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the lasagna firm up and prevents it from falling apart when you cut into it.

4. Layer Evenly

For the most authentic Olive Garden-style lasagna, make sure each layer of noodles, sauce, and cheese is spread evenly. This ensures you get a perfect balance of textures and flavors in each bite.

5. Add a Personal Touch with Herbs

While the classic recipe uses basil, oregano, and parsley, don’t be afraid to experiment with additional herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or even a touch of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs can really elevate the dish!

6. Make It Ahead of Time

Lasagna actually tastes better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld. Consider making the lasagna a day in advance and letting it sit in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to serve, just bake it straight from the fridge (you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time).

7. Serve with Classic Sides

For a true Olive Garden experience, serve your lasagna with a side salad and warm, fluffy breadsticks. The combination of savory lasagna, a tangy salad, and buttery breadsticks makes for a satisfying meal.

By following these tips, you’ll create a lasagna that’s not only a close replica of Olive Garden’s, but also perfectly tailored to your taste. Enjoy!

Olive Garden Lasagna Recipe Variations

While the classic Olive Garden lasagna is a crowd-pleaser on its own, you can easily customize the recipe to fit different dietary needs or preferences.

Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Vegetarian Olive Garden Lasagna

For a meat-free version of this beloved dish, simply swap out the ground beef and sausage for vegetables. Consider using a combination of mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, and bell peppers. These veggies bring a hearty texture and savory flavors that mimic the richness of the original.

You can sauté the vegetables with garlic and onions for added depth before layering them in place of the meat sauce. This variation is perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a lighter option.

2. Gluten-Free Olive Garden Lasagna

If you need a gluten-free version of lasagna, the recipe can be easily adapted by using gluten-free lasagna noodles. Many gluten-free pasta options are available in most supermarkets, and they work just as well as traditional noodles.

Be sure to check the cooking instructions on the gluten-free noodles, as they often require slightly different preparation. You can also use a gluten-free marinara sauce to ensure the whole dish is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Lasagna

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can replace the traditional pasta noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant.

These vegetable substitutes create a similar texture while cutting down on carbs. Layer the zucchini or eggplant slices in the same way you would with noodles, making sure to dry them thoroughly with paper towels before use to avoid excess moisture in your lasagna.

4. Meat Lover’s Olive Garden Lasagna

For a heartier, meat-packed variation, try adding layers of Italian sausage, pepperoni, or ground turkey along with the ground beef.

You could even add some cooked bacon for an extra smoky flavor. A meat lover’s version is perfect for anyone who loves a bold, savory, and protein-packed lasagna.

5. Ricotta-Free Lasagna

If you’re not a fan of ricotta cheese, you can swap it out for a different type of cheese. Cottage cheese is a great alternative with a similar texture and a slightly tangy taste.

Alternatively, you could opt for a cheese blend of mascarpone or cream cheese for a smoother, richer filling. This variation is perfect for those who prefer a different cheesy experience without sacrificing flavor.

How to Serve Olive Garden Lasagna

Once your lasagna is baked to perfection, it’s time to serve it! Here’s how you can make your meal feel just like a visit to Olive Garden, from sides to presentation:

1. Pair with a Fresh, Crispy Salad

A side salad is the perfect complement to the rich and cheesy lasagna. Olive Garden’s famous House Salad, with its mix of lettuce, olives, tomatoes, and onions, is always a great choice.

Toss it with some Italian dressing or a balsamic vinaigrette for an added zing. You can also add extras like croutons, shredded Parmesan, or even some freshly chopped basil for extra flavor.

2. Warm, Buttery Breadsticks

One of the most iconic Olive Garden accompaniments is their famous breadsticks. Serve your lasagna with freshly baked, soft, buttery breadsticks. You can make them yourself or simply purchase pre-made ones.

A light brush of garlic butter on the breadsticks will give them that authentic Olive Garden taste and make them the perfect tool for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.

3. A Glass of Wine

For a truly authentic Olive Garden experience, pair your lasagna with a glass of wine. A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti, Merlot, or Sangiovese is ideal.

The acidity and fruitiness of these wines balance out the richness of the lasagna and enhance the flavors. If you prefer white wine, a crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio can also complement the dish well.

4. Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Before serving, consider garnishing your lasagna with some freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a pop of flavor that balances the richness of the cheese and sauce.

5. Presenting the Lasagna

To make your lasagna look like it came straight from a restaurant, slice it into even portions with a sharp knife, ensuring the layers stay intact.

You can serve individual portions on plates or present the whole lasagna in the baking dish for a more family-style experience. Either way, be sure to let it cool slightly before cutting so the layers set and don’t fall apart.

6. Serve with a Refreshing Beverage

If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, consider pairing your lasagna with a refreshing Italian soda, iced tea, or sparkling water with a slice of lemon. These drinks are light enough to cleanse the palate between bites without overpowering the flavors of the dish.

Conclusion

Olive Garden’s lasagna is a classic dish that has earned its place as a favorite comfort food for many. By following this recipe, you can easily recreate the restaurant’s signature layers of savory meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and perfectly baked noodles right at home. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or simply craving a hearty meal, this lasagna is sure to satisfy.

The best part? You can tailor it to your personal taste, experimenting with variations like vegetarian, gluten-free, or keto-friendly versions without sacrificing flavor.

The tips shared in this guide will help you achieve restaurant-quality results, ensuring that every bite of your homemade lasagna is just as delicious as the one you remember from Olive Garden.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a comforting, indulgent dish that brings the taste of Olive Garden straight to your kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Olive Garden lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the lasagna a day or two in advance. After assembling it, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it’s cold from the fridge.

2. Can I freeze Olive Garden lasagna?

Absolutely! To freeze lasagna, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and then bake as usual. If baking from frozen, you’ll need to increase the cooking time by 15-20 minutes.

3. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe. They work well and save time. Just make sure to follow the package instructions, as no-boil noodles absorb more liquid and soften as they bake. Ensure your sauce is sufficiently liquid to prevent the lasagna from drying out.

4. How do I prevent my lasagna from being too watery?

To avoid a watery lasagna, be sure to drain any excess liquid from the cooked meat before adding it to the sauce. Also, make sure to dry any vegetable layers (like zucchini or spinach) if you’re using them. Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes after baking to allow the layers to set, which helps prevent excess liquid from spilling out.

5. How long should I let my lasagna rest before cutting?

It’s essential to let your lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes after baking. This allows the layers to firm up and makes it easier to cut clean slices without everything falling apart. It also gives the flavors time to meld together, enhancing the taste.