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Classic beef lasagna with layers of meat, cheese, and pasta
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Classic Beef Lasagna

A delicious layered masterpiece that combines ground beef, ricotta, and mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and special gatherings.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Beef, comfort food, Family Dinner, Italian Recipe, lasagna
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

For the meat sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef Juicy and flavorful, it serves as the hearty foundation.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and savory aroma.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Elevates the flavor.
  • 2 cups tomato sauce Brings a vibrant, zesty flavor.
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste Concentrated tomato goodness.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Classic Italian herb.
  • 1 tsp dried basil Adds authentic Italian flavor.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Essential seasoning.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Adds richness to the sautéed vegetables.

For the cheese filling

  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese Forms a smooth filling.
  • 1 large egg Helps bind the cheese mixture.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds savory complexity.

For assembly

  • 9 sheets lasagna sheets The layers that hold everything together.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese The gooey topping.
  • for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped Adds a touch of color.

Instructions

Prepare the meat sauce

  • Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft.
  • Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
  • Let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Make the cheese filling

  • In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Preheat the oven

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Assemble the lasagna

  • Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Add a layer of lasagna sheets, followed by one-third of the ricotta mixture, then another one-third of the meat sauce, and one-third of the mozzarella.
  • Repeat layers two more times, finishing with mozzarella on top.

Bake the lasagna

  • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Cool and serve

  • Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Notes

For added flavor, add red pepper flakes or sautéed mushrooms. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.