Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce

Name: Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 9 lasagna noodles (traditional or no-boil); 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 28 oz can crushed tomatoes; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tsp fresh basil, chopped; 2 tsp fresh oregano, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 4, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce is easy to make, even if your cooking skills are still developing
The robust flavors will have your taste buds dancing with joy
Its stunning layers create an impressive presentation that will wow your guests
Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this lasagna is versatile enough to suit any occasion

Cooking this lasagna always brings back memories of my relatives fighting over the last piece, proving its irresistible charm.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: healthy side dish pairing. For more inspiration, check out this Cucumber Caprese Salad recipe.

Lasagna Noodles: Choose traditional or no-boil noodles based on your preference; both yield fantastic results.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a rich flavor without excess grease; it keeps the dish balanced. For more inspiration, check out this Roasted Boursin Stuffed Dates recipe.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds a sweet depth to your meat sauce, enhancing overall flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the taste; adjust according to how garlicky you like it.
Canned Tomatoes: Select crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce; they provide a perfect base for layering.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness to your layers; don’t skimp on it!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for fresh mozzarella if possible; it creates gooey perfection when melted.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for sprinkling between layers and on top before baking for added flavor.
Fresh Basil and Oregano: Use these aromatic herbs to infuse freshness into your sauce; they elevate every bite.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance flavors throughout the dish; adjust to taste as needed.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop onions and garlic finely, measure out cheeses, and have canned tomatoes ready to go.

Cook the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with onions until they soften and become translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in canned tomatoes along with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Let this simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes to combine flavors beautifully.

Create the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with an egg, half of the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth. This blend gives creaminess throughout each slice.

Layer It Up: In a baking dish, start with a layer of meat sauce followed by noodles, then add ricotta mixture and mozzarella. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used up.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Now that you know how to create this Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce step by step, get ready to enjoy an unforgettable meal!

You Must Know

Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce is a game-changer for family dinners
The layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese create a comforting dish that brings everyone together
Don’t forget to let it rest before serving; the flavors meld beautifully

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meat and adding your vegetables. While the sauce simmers, cook your noodles al dente. Layer everything in a baking dish, and finish with a generous sprinkle of cheese for that golden crust.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses; ricotta mixed with herbs adds a delightful twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, sauté onions and garlic before adding the meat
Use no-boil lasagna noodles to save time; they absorb moisture from the sauce while cooking
Let it rest before slicing to ensure clean pieces

The first time I made this classic lasagna, my friends declared it “life-changing.” Their smiles as they savored each bite made all the effort worthwhile!

FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef in classic lasagna?

Try using ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option. a quick and easy dinner option.

Can I prepare classic lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it a day before and refrigerate until ready to bake.

How long should classic lasagna bake?

Bake at 375°F for about 45 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Pin3

3 Shares