These North Carolina Pizza Joints Are Serving Lasagna Dreams On A Plate
Picture this: bubbling cheese stretched over layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce seeping into every bite, all wrapped in the comfort of a warm Italian kitchen. North Carolina is quietly becoming the lasagna capital of the South, one pizza joint at a time.
From the mountains to the coast, pizzerias across the state are crafting lasagna dishes that rival any grandmother’s secret recipe. Whether you’re craving classic layers or creative twists, these sixteen spots prove that pizza ovens make magic with more than just pies.
Some add fresh herbs, others layer in spicy sausage or roasted vegetables, creating flavor combinations that surprise and delight with every forkful. Pair your portion with a crisp salad or a warm, buttery garlic knot, and you’ll understand why locals swear by these Italian kitchens.
From cozy small-town diners to bustling city favorites, North Carolina’s lasagna scene is a delicious adventure you don’t want to miss.
1. Brothers Italian Kitchen – Smithfield
Comfort food reaches new heights when you step through the doors at3103 US Hwy 70 E, Smithfield. Brothers Italian Kitchen has been perfecting the art of layered pasta for years, and locals know it.
The lasagna here isn’t just a dish; it’s a full-blown experience that starts with house-made noodles.
Each portion arrives at your table steaming hot, with cheese still bubbling from the oven. The meat sauce contains a blend of beef and Italian sausage that’s been simmered for hours.
You’ll taste the difference in every forkful, especially when that first bite reveals perfectly cooked pasta layers.
Families gather here on weekends, filling the dining room with laughter and the clinking of forks. The portions are generous enough to share, though you might not want to.
Service feels personal, like you’re dining at a relative’s home rather than a restaurant.
2. Pinehurst Pizza & Sports Bar – Pinehurst
Game nights take on a whole new flavor at 15 McIntyre Rd, Pinehurst, where sports and Italian cuisine collide beautifully. Pinehurst Pizza & Sports Bar serves up a lasagna pizza that combines two beloved classics into one unforgettable creation.
Screens line the walls, but your eyes will stay glued to your plate.
The chef layers ricotta cheese, ground beef, and marinara sauce directly onto pizza dough before baking it to perfection. It’s crispy on the bottom, gooey in the middle, and topped with a golden cheese crust.
This inventive approach gives you all the lasagna flavors you crave with the convenience of handheld slices.
Sports fans and food lovers alike pack this place during big games and quiet weeknights. The atmosphere stays lively without being overwhelming, making it perfect for family outings or casual dates.
Don’t skip the garlic knots on the side.
3. Villaggio Ristorante and Bar – Pinehurst
Elegance meets tradition at 65 Magnolia Rd, Pinehurst, where Villaggio Ristorante and Bar elevates Italian dining to an art form. Walking into this establishment feels like stepping into a villa somewhere in Tuscany.
The lasagna here is crafted with attention to detail that shows in every layer.
Fresh pasta sheets are made daily, then layered with a blend of three Italian cheeses and slow-cooked Bolognese sauce. The kitchen adds fresh herbs and a touch of cream to create a velvety texture.
Each serving is baked to order, ensuring that perfect cheese pull when you dig in with your fork.
The dining room maintains an upscale yet welcoming vibe, ideal for anniversary dinners or special celebrations. Servers know the menu inside out and offer thoughtful wine pairings.
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when tables fill quickly with discerning diners.
4. Romeo & Juliet Pizzeria – Charlotte
Love stories unfold over plates of pasta at 8142 Mt Holly-Huntersville Rd C, Charlotte, where Romeo & Juliet Pizzeria brings romance to every meal. The name isn’t just clever marketing; this spot genuinely captures the passion of Italian cooking.
Their lasagna stands as a testament to traditional recipes passed down through generations.
Layers of handmade pasta alternate with ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and a meat sauce that simmers for six hours minimum. The result is a dish so tender that your fork glides through it effortlessly.
Each bite delivers a perfect balance of flavors, from the sweet tomatoes to the savory meat and creamy cheese.
The intimate dining room features soft lighting and Italian music playing softly in the background. Couples frequently choose this spot for date nights, though families are equally welcome.
The staff treats every guest like family, remembering faces and favorite orders.
5. Nonnas Italian Restaurant & Pizza – Concord
Grandmother’s cooking comes alive at 4995 Weddington Rd, Concord, where Nonnas Italian Restaurant & Pizza serves up nostalgia with every dish. The name says it all: this place channels the spirit of Italian grandmothers who’ve perfected their recipes over decades.
Walking in feels like visiting a relative’s kitchen on Sunday afternoon.
The lasagna follows a time-honored recipe that prioritizes quality ingredients over shortcuts. Fresh mozzarella melts into layers of pasta that’s cooked just right, never mushy or too firm.
The meat sauce contains a secret blend of spices that keeps customers guessing and coming back for more.
Families dominate the dining room, with children coloring on paper tablecloths while parents savor every bite. Portions are substantial, often requiring a take-home box for later enjoyment.
The casual atmosphere encourages lingering over meals, making it perfect for unhurried dining experiences.
6. Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria – Raleigh
Authenticity reigns supreme at 331 Blake St, Raleigh, where Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria has built a loyal following over the years. The owners hail from Italy, bringing genuine recipes and cooking techniques to North Carolina.
Their lasagna reflects this heritage in every perfectly executed layer.
The dish arrives at your table in a personal-sized ceramic dish, still bubbling from the oven’s heat. Pasta sheets are thin yet sturdy, providing structure without overwhelming the filling.
The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a cheese blend that’s rich without being heavy.
Regulars fill the dining room most nights, chatting with servers who know them by name. The walls display photos of Italy, adding to the authentic atmosphere.
Whether you’re dining solo or with a group, the welcoming environment makes everyone feel like a valued guest.
7. Mezza Luna Pizzeria – Apex
Contemporary Italian cooking shines at 1763 W Williams St, Apex, where Mezza Luna Pizzeria blends modern techniques with traditional flavors. The restaurant’s name means “half moon,” and their lasagna is indeed a celestial experience.
Chefs here aren’t afraid to innovate while respecting classic recipes.
Each lasagna portion is built with attention to ingredient quality, using locally sourced vegetables when possible. The pasta maintains ideal texture through precise cooking times and proper layering techniques.
A finishing touch of fresh basil adds brightness to the rich meat and cheese combination.
The dining space features clean lines and modern decor that appeals to younger crowds without alienating traditionalists. An open kitchen lets diners watch the cooking process, adding entertainment to the meal.
Service is efficient and friendly, striking a balance between attentive and unobtrusive.
8. Seven Lakes Pizza Kitchen – West End
Community spirit thrives at 1077 Seven Lakes Dr N, West End, where Seven Lakes Pizza Kitchen serves as a neighborhood gathering spot. Locals consider this place their home away from home, especially when lasagna cravings strike.
The kitchen produces consistent quality that keeps families returning week after week.
Generous portions define the experience here, with each lasagna serving easily satisfying two people with healthy appetites. The meat sauce leans toward the hearty side, packed with ground beef and Italian sausage.
Cheese stretches impressively when you lift a forkful, creating those Instagram-worthy moments everyone loves.
The casual atmosphere welcomes diners in jeans and t-shirts, making it ideal for impromptu meals. Kids eat free on certain nights, drawing families from across the area.
Takeout orders fly out the door during dinner rushes, testament to the food’s popularity.
9. Pizza Palace Italian Restaurant – Fayetteville
Old-school charm defines the experience at 109 Hope Mills Rd, Fayetteville, where Pizza Palace Italian Restaurant has been feeding the community for decades. The vintage decor hasn’t changed much over the years, and regulars wouldn’t have it any other way.
Lasagna here tastes exactly like you remember from childhood visits to Italian restaurants.
The recipe stays true to Italian-American traditions, with thick layers of pasta and plenty of cheese. Meat sauce contains just the right amount of garlic and oregano, creating familiar comfort with every bite.
Portions are enormous, often requiring strategic planning to finish or a container for leftovers.
Red vinyl booths line the walls, offering cozy seating for families and couples alike. The staff has worked here for years, creating a sense of continuity that’s rare these days.
Military families from nearby Fort Bragg frequently choose this spot for celebrations.
10. Tuscany NY Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria – Lumberton
Big city flavors arrive in small-town North Carolina at 1810 N Pine St, Lumberton, where Tuscany NY Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria brings New York attitude to Southern hospitality. The lasagna here reflects the generous portions and bold flavors typical of Manhattan trattorias.
You won’t leave hungry from this establishment.
Thick slices of lasagna come loaded with a robust meat sauce that doesn’t hold back on flavor. The cheese blend includes a sharper variety that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
Fresh garlic bread arrives alongside, perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce on your plate.
The dining room channels New York pizzeria vibes with its no-frills decor and efficient service. Staff keeps water glasses filled and checks in regularly without hovering.
Takeout business stays brisk, especially during lunch hours when locals grab quick meals.
11. Mamma Mia’s Pizza and Pasta – West End
Joyful energy fills the air at 4243 Seven Lakes Plaza, West End, where Mamma Mia’s Pizza and Pasta lives up to its exclamatory name. The restaurant radiates warmth from the moment you walk through the door.
Their lasagna embodies the enthusiasm and passion that Italian cooking represents at its finest.
Each serving showcases layers that are visible from the side, revealing the care taken during assembly. The ricotta mixture includes hints of nutmeg and parsley, adding subtle complexity to familiar flavors.
Mozzarella melts into golden pools across the top, creating a slightly crispy edge that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior.
Bright colors and Italian-themed artwork create a cheerful dining environment that appeals to all ages. Servers approach tables with genuine smiles and helpful menu suggestions.
The restaurant’s proximity to Seven Lakes makes it a natural choice for residents seeking quality Italian food.
12. Pulcinella’s Italian Restaurant – Durham
Culinary artistry meets tradition at 4711 Hope Valley Rd #1e, Durham, where Pulcinella’s Italian Restaurant takes its craft seriously. Named after a classic Italian theatrical character, this establishment brings drama to the plate in the best possible way.
The lasagna demonstrates the kitchen’s commitment to authentic Italian cooking methods.
House-made pasta forms the foundation, providing texture that dried noodles simply cannot match. The Bolognese sauce simmers for hours, developing deep flavors that taste complex yet comforting.
A béchamel layer adds creaminess that elevates the dish beyond standard American versions of lasagna.
The intimate dining room features exposed brick and soft lighting that creates a romantic ambiance. Wine selections are carefully curated to complement the menu, with knowledgeable staff offering pairing suggestions.
Reservations are wise on weekends when food enthusiasts fill every table.
13. Sorrento’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria – Statesville
College town energy meets Italian tradition at 1004 Crossroads Dr, Statesville, where Sorrento’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria feeds students and locals alike. The location near UNC brings a youthful vibe to this family-run establishment.
Their lasagna strikes the perfect balance between quality and value, making it popular with budget-conscious diners.
Layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese come together in harmonious proportions that satisfy without overwhelming. The portion size is calculated to fill you up without breaking the bank.
A side salad accompanies most entrees, adding freshness to the rich main dish.
The dining room buzzes with conversation during lunch and dinner rushes, creating lively background energy. Students often gather here for study breaks or casual meals between classes.
The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from professors to first-year students exploring the area.
14. Cugino Forno Pizzeria – Greensboro
Neighborhood charm defines the experience at 1160 Revolution Mill Dr, Greensboro, where Cugino Forno Pizzeria has been a community fixture for years. The restaurant occupies a corner spot that’s become a landmark for locals seeking reliable Italian food.
Their lasagna follows New York traditions, with ricotta playing a starring role.
Creamy ricotta cheese dominates the filling, creating a lighter texture than meat-heavy versions found elsewhere. Ground beef and sausage still provide substance, but the cheese takes center stage.
The marinara sauce is bright and slightly sweet, balancing the savory meat and mild cheese perfectly.
Families pack the dining room on Friday nights, creating a bustling atmosphere that feels celebratory. The staff handles crowds efficiently while maintaining friendly service.
Takeout and delivery options make it easy to enjoy Gino’s lasagna at home when dining out isn’t convenient.
15. Cousins Coal Fired Pizzeria – Wilmington
Coastal sophistication arrives on every plate at 914 S Kerr Ave STE C, Wilmington, where Cousins Coal Fired Pizzeria reimagines Italian classics with contemporary flair. The wood-fired oven that makes their pizzas famous also works magic on lasagna.
Smoke and char add unexpected dimensions to this traditional dish.
The kitchen builds lasagna in a cast-iron skillet before sliding it into the wood-fired oven. High heat creates slightly crispy edges while keeping the center luxuriously soft.
Smoke from the wood fire infuses subtle complexity that sets this version apart from conventional preparations.
The dining room reflects Wilmington’s beach town vibe with nautical touches and airy design. A tapas menu offers small plates perfect for sharing before or alongside your lasagna.
The bar program is impressive, featuring craft cocktails that pair surprisingly well with Italian food.
16. Luisa’s Brick Oven Pizzeria – Charlotte
Refined comfort awaits at 1730 Abbey Pl, Charlotte, where Luisa’s Brick Oven Pizzeria delivers upscale Italian-American cuisine in a welcoming setting. The Ballantyne location attracts discerning diners who appreciate quality without pretension.
Lasagna here represents the restaurant’s philosophy of elevating familiar dishes through superior execution.
Premium ingredients make the difference in every layer, from San Marzano tomatoes in the sauce to imported Italian cheeses. The pasta is cooked al dente before assembly, maintaining structure throughout the baking process.
Each portion receives individual attention, ensuring consistent quality across every order.
The dining room strikes a balance between elegant and comfortable, making it suitable for business dinners and family celebrations. Service is polished but never stuffy, with servers who understand the menu thoroughly.
Wine pairings are suggested thoughtfully, enhancing the overall dining experience without adding unnecessary complexity.
