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Classic beef lasagna with layers of meat sauce and cheese
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Classic Beef Lasagna

A heartwarming dish with layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Beef Lasagna, Cheese, comfort food, Family Dinner, Pasta
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 375kcal

Ingredients

Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef A rich source of protein that adds depth and flavor.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Sweet and aromatic, enhances the meat sauce.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Brings a delightful punch of flavor.
  • 2 cups tomato sauce A base packed with vibrant flavor.
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste Intensifies the tomato flavor.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Adds a herbaceous note.
  • 1 tsp dried basil Complement to oregano.
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential for flavor balancing.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Used for sautéing.

Cheese Filling

  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese Creamy and smooth, perfect for layering.
  • 1 large egg Helps bind the mixture.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Introduces nutty flavor.

Lasagna Assembly

  • 9 sheets lasagna sheets Cooked according to package instructions.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully for a gooey finish.
  • to garnish fresh parsley, chopped Adds a fresh touch.

Instructions

Prepare the Meat Sauce

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
  • Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
  • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
  • Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Make the Cheese Filling

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, large 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) to preheat.

Assemble the Lasagna

  • Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in a baking dish.
  • Layer lasagna sheets on top, followed by 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, then 1/3 of the meat sauce, and 1/3 of shredded mozzarella.
  • Repeat the layering process two more times.
  • Finish with a generous layer of mozzarella on top.

Bake

  • Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Cool and Serve

  • Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy.

Notes

Experiment with spices such as crushed red pepper or add sautéed mushrooms for extra texture. Letting the lasagna cool completely before refrigerating overnight enhances flavors.