Name: Beef Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1½ lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; 12 lasagna noodles; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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If you’re craving a cozy, satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Beef Lasagna Recipe is exactly what you need. Layers of perfectly seasoned ground beef, rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella baked together create a dish that’s both hearty and comforting. Whether it’s a bustling family dinner or a chill weekend treat, this lasagna is straightforward, full of flavor, and makes the kitchen smell absolutely irresistible. Let me walk you through every detail so you can master this classic Italian favorite with confidence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients for a lasagna recipe arranged on a white marbled surface. There are long, yellow lasagna noodles stacked on the right side. Next to the noodles, a clear glass bowl is filled with shredded white cheese. Below it is another clear bowl with white ricotta cheese, and nearby is a white bowl of cottage cheese. A glass measuring cup holds a white creamy cheese mixture. A jar of red Classico organic tomato sauce with herbs and spices lies on its side near the center. Above it, a half of a peeled white onion and a garlic clove are visible. To the left, a clear glass bowl holds ground meat, and there are small bowls with various seasonings—black pepper in a red bowl, dried herbs in a green one, salt in two blue bowls, and a dark liquid in a small clear cup. Fresh green parsley and one brown egg complete the arrangement. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple essentials that come together harmoniously to build the rich flavors and textures that make this lasagna sing. Each one adds depth, creaminess, or the perfect cheesy melt that this dish just can’t do without.

1½ lb ground beef: The star protein providing juicy, flavorful meatiness to the sauce.
1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a savory base when sautéed with the beef.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that lifts the entire sauce.
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: Brings that classic tomato-rich Italian flavor to the dish.
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes: Keeps the sauce nice and thick with some fresh tomato texture.
12 lasagna noodles: The sturdy pasta layers that hold all the delicious fillings together.
15 oz ricotta cheese: Adds creamy richness and balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
1 large egg: Helps bind the ricotta filling for a smooth, luxurious layer.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides that melty, stretchy cheese layer everyone loves.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty kick scattered in the filling and on top.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to season the sauce beautifully.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out and balancing all the flavors.

How to Make Beef Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions turn translucent. This step builds the foundation of flavor and ensures the meat is juicy but not greasy. Remember to drain any excess fat before moving on—it keeps the final dish from becoming too oily.

Step 2: Simmer the Meat Sauce

Once the beef mixture is ready, stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes so the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens slightly. This slow simmer intensifies the taste and enhances the tomato’s natural sweetness while fully seasoning the beef.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

While the sauce simmers, boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to salt your pasta water for flavor. After draining, lay the noodles flat on a lightly greased baking sheet or a clean kitchen towel to keep them from sticking together—this will make layering smoother.

Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the large egg and half of the grated Parmesan. Mixing these ensures the ricotta layer will be rich and creamy yet hold together well once baked. Set this delicious cheesy blend aside for assembly.

Step 5: Layer the Lasagna

Grab a baking dish and start with a generous spoonful of meat sauce evenly spread at the bottom to prevent sticking. Next, arrange a layer of noodles, followed by the ricotta cheese mixture, then a layer of mozzarella. Repeat these layers until you’ve used all components, finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce and shredded mozzarella sprinkled with the remaining Parmesan cheese. This layering is what gives lasagna its irresistible texture and harmony of flavors.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly golden. Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before slicing—this resting period allows it to set and makes serving easy and neat.

How to Serve Beef Lasagna Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle some additional freshly chopped basil or parsley on top of your lasagna right before serving for a pop of fresh color and herbaceous brightness. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil can also add a silky finish that complements the hearty layers perfectly.

Side Dishes

This beef lasagna pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in tangy vinaigrette—something light to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is also a classic choice to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try baking individual portions in small ramekins for personal lasagna servings at a dinner party. You could also layer in some roasted vegetables like zucchini or spinach if you want to sneak in some extra greens without sacrificing that classic taste everyone loves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover beef lasagna tastes just as amazing the next day! Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This makes for a perfect ready-to-go meal when you need something quick yet satisfying.

Freezing

This Beef Lasagna Recipe freezes wonderfully both before and after baking. Wrap the dish securely with plastic wrap and a layer of foil before popping it into the freezer. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or baking.

Reheating

To reheat, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel. Microwave on medium heat until warmed through, checking every minute to avoid overheating. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil to keep the lasagna moist and melted.

FAQs

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta in this Beef Lasagna Recipe?

Absolutely! Cottage cheese is a lighter alternative to ricotta and will still give you a creamy layer, just with a slightly different texture. It works well if you prefer a less rich filling.

Do I need to boil the lasagna noodles before assembling?

Yes, for this recipe, boiling the noodles until al dente is necessary. It helps the noodles soften perfectly during baking, so your lasagna layers fuse together deliciously.

Can I prepare this Beef Lasagna Recipe ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the lasagna a day before baking and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready, just bake as directed. It’s a fantastic way to save time on busy days or plan for a gathering.

What cheese works best if I can’t find mozzarella?

Provolone or fontina cheese are great substitutes for mozzarella as they also melt beautifully and offer a mild, creamy taste that won’t overpower the other flavors.

Is this Beef Lasagna Recipe suitable for freezing after baking?

Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Just allow the lasagna to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat slowly in the oven to retain the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Lasagna Recipe is truly a timeless classic that never fails to impress with its layers of hearty meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender noodles. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy with every bite. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll soon have your own go-to recipe that turns any meal into a special occasion!