Classic Beef Lasagna

 

Classic Beef Lasagna: The Comfort-Food Favorite Everyone Loves

Few dishes say “home” quite like a warm, bubbling tray of Classic Beef Lasagna. Layered with rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, tender pasta sheets, and golden melted cheese, this timeless recipe has been a family favorite for generations. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal for guests, lasagna always delivers that unbeatable combination of comfort, flavor, and nostalgia.

Let’s dive into what makes this classic so beloved—and how to prepare a lasagna that tastes just as good (or better!) than the one you grew up with.

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🍅 Why Classic Beef Lasagna Is a Timeless Favorite

Classic beef lasagna has stood the test of time for good reason:

✔ Rich, Slow-Simmered Flavor

The hearty beef ragu—simmered with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs—infuses every bite with deep, comforting flavor.

✔ Layers of Creamy, Cheesy Perfection

Ricotta brings creaminess, mozzarella adds stretch, and Parmesan provides savory sharpness.

✔ A Crowd-Pleaser for Every Occasion

Whether feeding kids, adults, or guests who “don’t know what they want,” lasagna never disappoints.

✔ Great for Make-Ahead Meals

You can assemble it the day before or freeze it for later, making it as practical as it is delicious.

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🧀 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil for sautéing

For the Cheese Filling

• 2 cups ricotta cheese

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients

• 9–12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Classic Beef Lasagna

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sauté the onions until soft. Add the garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, and seasonings. Let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes to deepen the flavor.

2. Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and smooth.

3. Cook the Lasagna Noodles

If using traditional noodles, boil them until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
No-boil noodles can be added directly during assembly.

4. Assemble the Layers

In a baking dish, layer in this order:

1. A thin layer of meat sauce

2. Lasagna noodles

3. Ricotta mixture

4. More meat sauce

5. Mozzarella

Repeat the layering process 2–3 times, finishing with mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

5. Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil (avoiding contact with the cheese) and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.

Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing—this helps the layers set beautifully.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

Classic beef lasagna pairs wonderfully with:

• A crisp green salad

• Garlic bread or herb focaccia

• Roasted vegetables

• A glass of red wine (like Chianti or Cabernet)

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⭐ Why You'll Make This Again

This dish delivers everything you want in a comfort meal: richness, heartiness, creamy textures, and nostalgic flavor. It’s versatile, satisfying, and impressively simple to bring together with a little prep and layering.

Whether it’s Sunday dinner or a special gathering, Classic Beef Lasagna is the kind of recipe that brings people together and creates memories—one delicious slice at a time.