Easy Lazy Lasagna (4 Ingredients)

Easy Lazy Lasagna is my go-to dinner when I want all the comfort and flavor of traditional lasagna without the work. With just 4 ingredients, this dish is simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy nights. It has all the cheesy, meaty goodness I crave—without layering, boiling, or complicated steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly low-effort and still delivers on big, bold flavor. There’s no need to cook noodles or prepare multiple sauces—everything bakes together in one dish. It’s ideal when I want something warm and filling but don’t have the time (or energy) for traditional lasagna. Plus, it’s easy to double for a crowd or save as leftovers for later.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen or refrigerated cheese ravioli (this replaces the pasta and ricotta layers)

• Marinara or pasta sauce

• Ground beef (or Italian sausage)

• Shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a skillet, I brown the ground beef, breaking it up and cooking until fully done. I drain any excess grease.

3. I stir the marinara sauce into the cooked beef and let it simmer for a few minutes.

4. I spread a little of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish, then layer with frozen ravioli, more sauce, and mozzarella cheese.

5. I repeat the layers until I use up all the ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

6. I cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

7. I let it sit for a few minutes before serving so it sets nicely.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. It takes around 10 minutes to prepare and 40–45 minutes to bake, so I can have dinner ready in under an hour.

Variations

I sometimes use spinach ravioli or meat-filled ravioli for more flavor. I’ve also added a layer of ricotta in the middle for an extra creamy bite. If I want it spicy, I mix in red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef. For a vegetarian version, I skip the meat and just use ravioli, sauce, and cheese.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I cover a portion and warm it in the microwave or oven at 350°F until heated through. It also freezes well—I let it cool, slice into portions, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use refrigerated ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, both work well. I adjust the baking time slightly—refrigerated ravioli may cook a few minutes faster.

Do I have to cook the ravioli first?

Nope. That’s the beauty of this recipe—the ravioli cooks perfectly in the oven with the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate it up to a day ahead. When I’m ready to bake, I just pop it in the oven.

Can I use jarred sauce?

Yes. I usually use my favorite store-bought marinara or pasta sauce to save time, but I sometimes mix in herbs or garlic for extra flavor.

What’s the best cheese to use on top?

I like shredded mozzarella, but I’ve also used Italian blend or provolone. A sprinkle of parmesan on top adds a nice finish too.

Conclusion

Easy Lazy Lasagna is one of those recipes I always keep in my back pocket. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for nights when I need something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. With just four ingredients, it proves that good food doesn’t have to be complicated.

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