Name: Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 jar (about 24 oz) pasta sauce or 2 cups marinara sauce; 1.5 cups ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste; 9 lasagna noodles; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you have ever longed for the ultimate comforting meal that brings everyone together around the table, this Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe is exactly what you need. Layers of perfectly cooked noodles, rich tomato sauce with hearty ground beef, creamy ricotta filling, and melted mozzarella create a harmony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. This dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a soul-warming experience that has stood the test of time in family kitchens everywhere.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows all the ingredients for making lasagna arranged neatly on a wooden surface. There are eight long, flat, yellow lasagna pasta sheets stacked in the top right corner. Nearby is a glass bowl filled with finely shredded mozzarella cheese, white in color with a soft texture. Beside it is a glass bowl of fluffy white ricotta cheese. A smaller white bowl holds white cottage cheese with a lumpy texture placed near fresh green parsley and a brown egg. A glass jar of red tomato sauce with an orange label is at the center, slightly tilted. A half white onion sits near the jar. On the left, a glass bowl contains raw ground meat, red with some fat mixed in. Surrounding this, small white and blue bowls hold different dry spices and salt, and two small green and red bowls contain dark and dry herbs. A few garlic cloves are also visible in the top left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to making this lasagna shine. Each item plays a crucial role, from the savory beef to the creamy cheeses that bring balance and richness to the dish.

1 pound ground beef: Use lean ground beef for hearty flavor without excess grease.
1 jar pasta sauce or 2 cups marinara: Choose a quality sauce to infuse your layers with robust tomato goodness.
9 lasagna noodles: Either boiled or no-boil noodles work well for layering.
1.5 cups ricotta cheese: Adds a luscious, creamy texture to contrast with the meat sauce.
1 egg: Binds the ricotta mixture for a firmer filling.
2 cups shredded mozzarella: Melted on top, it provides that classic, gooey cheese pull everyone loves.
1/2 cup parmesan: Sprinkled to add a sharp, nutty flavor that layers beautifully.
1 teaspoon Italian herbs: A fragrant blend of flavors like basil and oregano to elevate the sauce and cheese.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every component perfectly.

How to Make Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Prepare the Sauce

Start by heating a large skillet and browning the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart finely as it cooks. Once browned, stir in your pasta sauce or marinara, allowing the flavors to meld for a few minutes on gentle heat. This forms the rich, meaty base layer for your lasagna layers ahead.

Step 2: Mix the Ricotta Filling

While the meat simmers, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This mixture adds a creamy, herb-infused balance to the dish and helps hold the lasagna together when baked.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Prepare the noodles by boiling them according to package instructions, making sure to cook until just al dente because they will continue cooking in the oven. Drain the noodles and lay them flat to prevent sticking while you assemble the layers. For a quicker version, no-boil noodles can be used too.

Step 4: Layer the Lasagna

In a baking dish, start with a layer of meat sauce, followed by noodles, then spread some of the ricotta mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and parmesan over the ricotta. Repeat these layers, finishing with a thick blanket of cheese on top. This layering is where all the magic happens, building those heavenly contrasts between sauce, cheese, and pasta.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), then bake the lasagna uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes. When the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling, it is ready. Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to keep those layers intact and to let the flavors fully settle.

How to Serve Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe

The image shows a thick slice of lasagna on a white plate with a silver fork beside it. The lasagna has multiple layers, starting from a bottom layer of pasta sheets that are light yellow and smooth. Above the pasta, there is a rich, chunky red meat sauce mixed with small bits of tomato, followed by a thick layer of melted, golden brown cheese that appears slightly crisp on top. This layering repeats, showing another pasta layer, then more meat sauce, and topped again with a generous amount of melted cheese that looks soft with some browned spots. In the background, there is a white baking dish filled with the remaining lasagna, showing the browned, bubbly cheese surface on top. The setting has a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley on top adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the lasagna’s richness. You can also grate a bit more parmesan just before serving for that extra savory touch.

Side Dishes

This hearty Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus also complement the deep flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For individual servings, consider baking your lasagna in smaller ramekins or muffin tins—perfect for dinner parties or meal prep. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top if you like a little heat, or drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze for a gourmet twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover leftover lasagna tightly with foil or store in an airtight container. It keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days, and the flavors often deepen after a day or two in the fridge.

Freezing

This Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe is freezer-friendly and perfect for busy nights. Freeze fully assembled (but unbaked) or leftover cooked portions. Wrap securely to prevent freezer burn and enjoy within 2 to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For quick reheating, microwave covered and in intervals, stirring or rotating as needed to ensure even heating without drying out the cheese or meat sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat in this Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be great alternatives if you want a lighter version or just a change in flavor.

Do I have to use ricotta cheese?

Ricotta gives the lasagna its creamy texture, but if you’re not a fan, you can substitute with cottage cheese or even béchamel sauce for a different but still delicious result.

Is it necessary to boil lasagna noodles before layering?

While boiling noodles ensures tenderness, you can use no-boil noodles that cook fully in the oven’s moisture, saving time without sacrificing taste.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it convenient for busy days or entertaining guests.

How do I know when the lasagna is fully cooked?

Look for bubbly sauce around the edges and golden, melted cheese on top. Also, a knife inserted should come out hot, and the noodles should be tender.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe is truly a gem for home cooks who want a delicious, comforting meal that’s not too complicated but packed with flavor. Once you try it, you’ll see why it has become a timeless favorite across countless dinner tables. I hope you have as much fun making and sharing it as I do every time I serve it to my friends and family.