How to Make the Perfect Classic Beef Lasagna
Italian · Medium · 90 min · 8 servings
Layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese make this lasagna the ultimate comfort food. It is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Why this recipe works
This Classic Beef Lasagna recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 90 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 520 calories with 32g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 8 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 12 sheets lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Cook Noodles and Meat
Boil the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente, then drain. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, drain excess fat, and stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Mix the Ricotta Layer
In a medium bowl, stir together the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Layer the Lasagna
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish. Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella. Repeat the layers twice and finish with sauce and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 375 degrees F for 40 minutes so the cheese melts and the layers heat through evenly.
Step 5: Uncover and Brown
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- ground beef → ground turkey or Italian sausage
- whole milk ricotta → cottage cheese blended until smooth
- lasagna noodles → no-boil lasagna noodles to save time
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Skipping the resting time causes the lasagna to fall apart when sliced
- Not covering with foil while baking causes the top to burn before the center is hot
- Overcooking the noodles before baking makes them mushy after the oven
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 520 calories, 32g protein, 38g carbs, 26g fat, 3g fiber.
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