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Classic Beef Lasagna

A comforting and delicious layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and melted mozzarella that your family will love.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Beef Lasagna, Classic Lasagna, comfort food, Family Dinner, Homemade Pasta
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 400kcal

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Cheese Filling

  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Assembly

  • 9 sheets lasagna sheets, cooked according to package instructions
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Meat Sauce

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
  • Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
  • Introduce the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
  • Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, mixing until well combined.
  • Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Make the Cheese Filling

  • In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Mix until smooth and creamy.

Preheat the Oven

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

Assemble the Lasagna

  • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  • Lay three cooked lasagna sheets over the sauce.
  • Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the pasta evenly.
  • Add 1/3 of the meat sauce on top followed by 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella.
  • Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella on top.

Bake

  • Cover the dish with foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese.
  • Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.

Cool and Serve

  • Allow the lasagna to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Consider using a mix of cheeses for added depth or sneaking in some veggies for extra nutrition. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.