Nothing says comfort like a warm, hearty slice of lasagna. This homemade ground beef lasagna is layered with a savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and a generous amount of melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to satisfy! Follow along to make the best lasagna from scratch.
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Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
For the Ricotta Mixture:
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lasagna Layers:
- 12 lasagna noodles (or enough to make 3 layers in a 9x13-inch pan)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
1.Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2.Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3.Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the **crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper**. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the flavors meld together. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the **ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper**. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 3: Pre-Cook the Lasagna Noodles
1.Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking. Lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
1.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. This prevents the noodles from sticking.
3. Layer the ingredients as follows:
- First layer: Place 3-4 noodles on top of the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
- Spread ⅓ of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles.
- Sprinkle ⅓ of the shredded mozzarella cheese and ⅓ of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Spoon ⅓ of the meat sauce over the cheese layer.
- Repeat this process two more times, ending with a final layer of meat sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
1.Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
3. Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set.
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Tips for Perfect Lasagna
- Use fresh herbs: While dried herbs are convenient, fresh basil or parsley can add an extra burst of flavor.
- Drain excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Resting time: Allowing the lasagna to rest makes slicing easier and helps the flavors meld.
- Freeze leftovers: Lasagna freezes well! Store portions in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve this homemade lasagna with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine, like Merlot or Chianti, pairs wonderfully with this meal.
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Conclusion
This homemade ground beef lasagna recipe is a classic dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Each layer is packed with flavor, from the savory meat sauce to the creamy ricotta and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a large gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is always a crowd-pleaser.
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