Description
A classic, hearty beef lasagna layered with rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 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
Pasta and Cheese Mixture
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the lasagna.
- Cook Meat Sauce: In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 15 minutes to develop rich flavors.
- Prepare Lasagna Noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the large egg and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture will add creaminess and help bind layers together.
- Assemble Lasagna: In a baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, then the ricotta mixture, and a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
- Top and Bake: Finish by topping the assembled lasagna with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow it to set, making it easier to serve.
Notes
- Freezes well before or after baking, making it ideal for meal prep.
- You can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if preferred for a different texture.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
