Introduction:
Few dishes feel as comforting, satisfying, and universally loved as a Classic Beef Lasagna. It’s the kind of
meal that brings people to the kitchen just from the smell—rich tomato sauce simmering with beef and garlic, layers of tender
pasta, creamy ricotta, and a golden mozzarella top bubbling around the edges.
This lasagna recipe is designed to be reliable and flavorful without being complicated. The meat sauce gets depth from a slow
simmer (even a short one makes a difference), the cheese mixture stays creamy, and the layers hold together so you get clean,
beautiful slices—no watery mess.
Whether you’re making Sunday dinner, feeding a crowd, or stocking the freezer with a make-ahead meal, this classic beef lasagna
is a recipe you’ll keep coming back to.
Ingredients:
For the meat sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 lb (680g) ground beef (80/20 is great)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
For the cheese layer:
- 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup grated Parmesan, divided
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For layering:
- 12 lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella, divided
- Optional: 1 cup shredded provolone (for extra gooeyness)
Instructions:
- Cook noodles (if using regular).
Boil lasagna noodles in salted water until just al dente. Drain and lay flat on a lightly oiled surface
so they don’t stick. If using oven-ready noodles, skip this step. - Make the meat sauce.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook 4–5 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add ground beef, salt, and pepper; cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed. - Build flavor.
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