A warm, hearty classic, meat lasagna is the ultimate comfort food layered with rich, meaty sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese. This dish brings together perfectly seasoned ground meat, tangy marinara, tender lasagna noodles, and a blend of cheeses, creating a satisfying meal that’s ideal for family dinners or special occasions. Baked to golden perfection, this lasagna is a timeless favorite that’s sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 box (12 oz) lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned and the onion is softened, about 7–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Noodles: While the sauce simmers, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and lay them flat on a sheet of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer 3–4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture, then a layer of meat sauce, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Classic meat lasagna is a meal made with love, bringing bold flavors and comfort to every bite—perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners!
