This cast iron skillet lasagna is packed with layers of fire-roasted tomato sauce, herbed ricotta, and sweet Italian sausage. Baked to perfection in a Dutch oven, it delivers rich, cheesy flavor with a rustic touch.
Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a cast iron Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes, cooking until the onion turns translucent.
Cook the sausage: Add the sausage to the pan, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook until mostly done.
Prepare the sauce: Drain the fire-roasted tomatoes, then add all three cans to the pot along with the half and half. Stir to combine, then remove from heat.
Mix the ricotta filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, parmesan, egg, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir until smooth.
Cook the noodles: Boil lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Layer the lasagna: Remove all but 1 cup of sauce from the Dutch oven. Layer noodles over the sauce, followed by ricotta filling and mozzarella. Repeat this pattern once, then finish with a final layer of sauce, noodles, ricotta, sauce, and mozzarella.
Garnish and bake: Sprinkle parsley on top. Cover and bake for 35 minutes.
Broil for a golden top: Remove the lid and place under the broiler for 5 minutes, watching closely.
Rest before serving: Let the lasagna sit for 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Customize the protein: Swap sweet Italian sausage for spicy sausage or ground beef for a different flavor profile.
Broil carefully for a crispy top: Keep an eye on the lasagna while broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
Let it rest before slicing: Allow the lasagna to sit for 30 minutes after baking so the layers set properly.
Store and reheat properly: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until warmed through.