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Delicious classic beef lasagna layered with rich meat sauce and cheese.
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Classic Beef Lasagna

A comforting dish with layers of tender pasta, hearty meat sauce, and creamy cheese, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Beef Lasagna, Classic Lasagna, comfort food, Family Dinner, Pasta Dish
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef The heart of the lasagna, providing a savory foundation.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
  • 2 cups tomato sauce Brings in that delightful acidity and vibrant color.
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste Concentrates the tomato flavor.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Enhances the sauce.
  • 1 tsp dried basil Adds a sweet, slightly peppery aroma.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Essential seasonings for balance.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Used for sautéing and adds richness.

For the Cheese Filling

  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese Creamy and rich, forming the luxurious cheese layer.
  • 1 large egg Binds the cheese mixture.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a salty, nutty flavor.

For Assembly and Topping

  • 9 lasagna sheets The perfect vehicle for all the delicious layers.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully for a golden topping.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Adds brightness and color.

Instructions

Preparation of Meat Sauce

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
  • Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
  • Introduce the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
  • Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, allowing the sauce to simmer for 20 minutes.

Make the Cheese Filling

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Mix until smooth and creamy.

Preheat the Oven

  • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Assemble the Lasagna

  • Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
  • Lay down the lasagna sheets over the sauce.
  • Add 1/3 of the ricotta mixture across the pasta followed by 1/3 of the meat sauce and then 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella on top.

Bake

  • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

  • Let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality ingredients. You can prepare the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight for improved flavor.