Pin it This Italian-American dish features tender ground beef simmered with herbs and tomatoes, layered with creamy ricotta blended with Parmesan and parsley, all nestled between tender lasagna noodles. Topped with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan, then baked until bubbly and golden. The dish offers rich textures and comforting flavors, perfect for a family meal or special gathering. Resting before slicing enhances the melty, cohesive layers for an irresistible serving.
Discovering this classic beef lasagna was like stumbling upon a warm, comforting hug on a chilly evening. The layers of savory meat sauce combined with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella felt like the ultimate home-cooked indulgence.
I still remember the first time I nailed the perfect balance of spices in the meat sauce when my friends dropped by unannounced. It was the kind of meal that drew everyone into the kitchen for seconds and stories.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: I always use extra virgin for its rich flavor and smooth finish that starts the sauce beautifully.
- Yellow onion: Finely chopped for that perfect sweet warmth that blends seamlessly.
- Garlic: Minced fresh to fill the kitchen with its irresistible aroma.
- Ground beef: I go for lean but flavorful to keep the sauce hearty without too much grease.
- Crushed tomatoes: Canned with high quality and no added sugars for the freshest taste.
- Ricotta cheese: Whole milk ricotta adds creaminess that makes every bite melt.
- Lasagna noodles: Regular or no-boil—no-boil saves time, but regular adds that classic pasta texture.
- Mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded for gooey, melty delight.
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather your ingredients so the process flows smoothly.
- Start the Meat Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet. As the oil shimmers, add finely chopped onion and listen to it soften and sizzle for about 5 minutes. Next, toss in the minced garlic and inhale the fragrant aroma as it cooks for just a minute.
- Brown the Beef:
- Add ground beef, seasoning it with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir and break it apart, browning thoroughly—itʼs rich and meaty with the sound of sizzling beef.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar. Let it simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes while stirring occasionally; the sauce thickens and the flavors meld into a luscious base.
- Prepare the Noodles:
- While the sauce simmers, boil lasagna noodles or unwrap your no-boil option. Drain and lay them flat on a towel to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ricotta Filling:
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy and perfectly seasoned.
- Assemble the Layers:
- Start with a cup of meat sauce spread evenly on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer four noodles over the sauce, then spread a third of the ricotta mixture. Top that with a cup of meat sauce and a cup of shredded mozzarella. Repeat twice more, finishing with remaining sauce, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Cover with foil (lightly oiled or parchment beneath to prevent sticking) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake 20–25 additional minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes to settle those layers before slicing and sharing.
Pin it This dish became more than just food when it helped me celebrate a milestone birthday surrounded by loved ones. It was the centerpiece of laughter and stories, marking memories as rich as its flavor.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
Pair the lasagna with a simple green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread on the side always brings everyone back for seconds and creates a true Italian-American feast.
Keeping It Fresh
If you have leftovers, store tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until bubbly to revive that oven-fresh taste.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
Once, when my power went out unexpectedly but the oven was still hot, I managed to bake this lasagna just in time to feed hungry, stranded guests. It was a lifesaver and solidified this recipe as a kitchen hero.
- Always have your spices measured and ready before starting.
- Donʼt rush the layering—it builds beautiful texture and flavor depths.
- Make sure to let the lasagna rest; it holds itself together better when served.
Pin it Thanks for spending this time with me in the kitchen—enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite and may your lasagna always come out perfect!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese is best for the filling?
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Ricotta combined with Parmesan and parsley creates a creamy, flavorful filling that balances the meat sauce perfectly.
- → Can I use no-boil noodles instead of regular ones?
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Yes, no-boil noodles work well and simplify preparation by eliminating the boiling step, absorbing moisture during baking.
- → How do I prevent the cheese from sticking to the foil?
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Lightly oil the foil or place parchment paper underneath before covering to keep the cheese layer from sticking.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other proteins?
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Ground turkey or Italian sausage can be used to vary the flavor while maintaining a rich, savory base.
- → What are recommended serving suggestions?
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Pair this dish with robust red wines like Chianti or Sangiovese, and a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
