Classic Beef Lasagna

November 28, 2024 by admin

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer, then lower the heat and let the sauce cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

1. Mix the Ricotta:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Cook the Noodles:
   • If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to package directions, drain, and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, skip this step.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Grease the Baking Dish:
   • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
4. Layer the Lasagna:
   • First Layer: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
   • Second Layer: Place 3-4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping.
   • Third Layer: Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
   • Fourth Layer: Sprinkle 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/3 of the grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Lasagna

1. Cover with Foil:
   • Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
2. Uncover and Bake:
   • After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
3. Rest Before Serving:
   • Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the layers set.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice and Serve:
   • Cut the lasagna into squares and serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
2. Garnish:
   • Optionally, sprinkle with extra fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for a beautiful finishing touch.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan provide the best flavor and texture.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the lasagna to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it hold its shape when you slice it.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the lasagna a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake it the next day.
• Freezing: This lasagna freezes wonderfully. Assemble and freeze before baking, then bake straight from the freezer—just add an extra 20-30 minutes to the cooking time.

Variations

• Vegetarian Lasagna: Swap the ground beef for sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.
• Beef and Sausage Lasagna: Add Italian sausage for extra flavor and richness.
• Spicy Lasagna: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the meat sauce for a kick.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Freeze for Later: Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or oven. To keep the top from drying out, cover the lasagna with foil while reheating in the oven.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Beef Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty layers of beef, rich marinara, and melted cheese for a filling and flavorful meal. Whether for a family dinner or special occasion, it’s a dish that everyone will love.

Enjoy each satisfying bite, and don’t forget to share the leftovers—if there are any!