Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe

 A hearty, cheesy lasagna layered with rich beef ragu,

 creamy ricotta, and perfectly baked mozzarella.

Author: tinsuf

Cuisine: Italian-American

Category: Main Course

Keywords: lasagna, beef lasagna, pasta bake, classic lasagna recipe

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Yield: 8 servings

Introduction

When you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and soul-soothing, this Classic Beef Lasagna delivers in every delicious layer. Tender pasta sheets are stacked with rich beef ragu, creamy ricotta, and golden, bubbling mozzarella—each bite a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this lasagna is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1 container (15 oz) ricotta

•  cheese
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or boiled)
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• Fresh basil leaves (optional garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch

1.  baking dish.
2. Make the Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft (3–4 minutes), then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add ground beef, break it up, and cook until browned (6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to deepen the flavor.
3. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Assemble the Lasagna: Spread 1 cup of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish. Layer noodles, then spread ⅓ of the ricotta mixture, 1 cup meat sauce, and 1 cup mozzarella. Repeat layers twice more. Finish with a final layer of noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and the rest of the mozzarella.
5. Bake: Cover with greased foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra browning—watch closely.
6. Rest & Serve: Let lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with garlic bread or a crisp salad.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for deeper flavor.
• Add spinach to the cheese filling for extra nutrition.
• Make it ahead: Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze baked or unbaked portions for future meals.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven. Lasagna also freezes well for up to 2 months.

Recipe by tinsuf. Perfect for family dinners and gatherings.