Classic Beef Lasagna

 

A comforting and satisfying dish, Classic Beef Lasagna is the epitome of hearty Italian comfort food. Layers of rich beefy marinara sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, tender pasta, and melted mozzarella come together to create a meal that’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or cozy weeknights. This timeless recipe is as delicious as it is filling, and guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: A classic dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
• Made from Scratch: Rich, flavorful marinara sauce with a perfect blend of cheeses.
• Layers of Comfort: Savory beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella—what’s not to love?
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and even frozen for future meals.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): The base of the sauce.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp): For cooking the meat.
• Yellow Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): For flavor.
• Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz can): The heart of the sauce.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): Adds richness.
• Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Classic herb flavor.
• Dried Basil (1 tsp): For Italian flair.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional, ½ tsp): For a little kick.

For the Ricotta Mixture:

• Ricotta Cheese (15 oz): Creamy, smooth texture.
• Egg (1 large): To bind the ricotta.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): For a fresh, herby flavor.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): To season.

For the Lasagna:

• Lasagna Noodles (12 sheets): Pre-cooked or no-boil, depending on preference.
• Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melty and gooey.
• Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): Sharp, salty finish.

For Cooking:

• Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: To grease the baking dish.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Spoon or spatula
• Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

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