Do you add egg to ricotta cheese for lasagna?

Yes, and for good reason. Adding an egg to your ricotta cheese filling for lasagna helps bind the ingredients together. Without it, the filling can ooze or separate while baking. The egg acts like culinary glue, giving your lasagna neat layers that slice cleanly. Just one egg per 15 ounces of ricotta is all you need. If you’re avoiding eggs, you can substitute with flaxseed meal and water or skip it—but know that your ricotta cheese filling for lasagna may be softer and less structured.

What is in ricotta filling for lasagna?

The base of any great ricotta cheese filling for lasagna includes whole milk ricotta, one egg, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley or basil. That’s your foundation. Some cooks add garlic powder or crushed red pepper, and others stir in spinach or lemon zest. The beauty of ricotta filling is how customizable it is. This simple combo creates a creamy filling that balances the acidity of tomato sauce and the richness of pasta. It’s especially delicious when layered beside dishes like this chicken parmesan recipe or served with a spoonful of creamy Italian sausage soup .

What is the correct order to layer lasagna with ricotta cheese?

Always build lasagna from the bottom up. Start with sauce, followed by noodles, then spread your ricotta cheese filling for lasagna evenly across. Repeat until you reach the top, finishing with sauce and shredded cheese. This technique ensures your ricotta stays in place, melding into each bite rather than pooling at the bottom. No shortcuts—layering right is what turns a good lasagna into a crave-worthy meal.

Can you use ricotta cheese in lasagne?

Absolutely. In fact, using ricotta cheese filling for lasagna is a staple of American-style lasagna and parts of Southern Italy. It’s lighter than béchamel and offers a creamy texture without overwhelming the dish. Ricotta pairs beautifully with tomato-based sauces, sautéed greens, and herbs. Whether you’re making a traditional meat lasagna or a veggie version, ricotta cheese is the best choice for a soft, luxurious layer. It's a foundational ingredient that balances every other flavor on the plate.

Ricotta Cheese Filling for Lasagna: Classic, Creamy & Foolproof Layers

Name: Ricotta Cheese Filling for Lasagna: Classic, Creamy & Foolproof Layers
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried); 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese

1 large egg

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, add the ricotta cheese and crack in the egg.

2. Stir until the egg is fully incorporated into the ricotta.

3. Add the grated Parmesan, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

4. Mix until smooth and uniform.

5. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

6. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use or layer directly into lasagna.

Notes

Use whole milk ricotta for the richest flavor.

Add a touch of lemon zest or nutmeg for extra brightness.

If your ricotta is watery, drain it with cheesecloth before mixing.

Author: hafsa saffaji
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 190
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: ricotta cheese filling for lasagna, lasagna filling, creamy ricotta spread