Traditional Beef Lasagna

Introduction

Traditional Beef Lasagna is a timeless Italian-inspired comfort dish made with layers of rich meat sauce,
tender pasta sheets, creamy cheese, and savory seasonings. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings,
or make-ahead meals, this hearty casserole delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (24 oz / 680 g) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Cheese Layers

• 15 oz (425 g) ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Other Ingredients

• 9–12 lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
   Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Add ground beef and cook until browned, draining excess fat if necessary.
2. Simmer the Sauce:
   Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
   Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.
4. Cook the Noodles:
   If using regular noodles, cook according to package instructions until al dente.
   Drain and lay flat to prevent sticking.
5. Assemble the Lasagna:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a baking dish.
   Add a layer of noodles, followed by ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
   Repeat layers, finishing with meat sauce, mozzarella, and remaining Parmesan.
6. Bake:
   Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes
   until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
7. Rest Before Serving:
   Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to help it set.

Description

This Traditional Beef Lasagna is rich, hearty, and perfectly balanced with layers of savory meat sauce
and creamy cheese. As it bakes, the flavors meld together, creating a comforting, classic dish
that feels both indulgent and homemade.

Tips

• Add a splash of red wine to the meat sauce for deeper flavor.
• Use whole-milk ricotta for a creamier texture.
• Shred mozzarella fresh for better melting.
• Allow the lasagna to rest before cutting for clean slices.

Correction

• Too watery: Simmer the sauce longer to reduce excess liquid.
• Too dry: Add more sauce between layers.
• Burning on top: Cover loosely with foil if browning too fast.
• Undercooked noodles: Ensure noodles are fully cooked or surrounded with enough sauce.

Enjoy

Serve your Traditional Beef Lasagna warm with garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
Enjoy the comforting flavors, cheesy layers, and classic homemade goodness with family and friends.