If you’ve ever craved a dish that wraps comfort, heartiness, and a burst of Italian flavors all in one, this Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe is your culinary soulmate. It layers tender pasta with rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese to create a meal that truly feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing friends, this recipe promises a deliciously satisfying experience that’s worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role in building flavor, texture, and that irresistible cheesy melt. The combination is simple but powerful enough to make your lasagna shine.
- Lasagna noodles (9, traditional or no-boil): The sturdy base that holds all the layers together perfectly without falling apart.
- Lean ground beef (1 lb): Adds hearty, savory depth and protein to make the dish filling.
- Whole milk ricotta cheese (15 oz): Brings creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the robust tomato sauce.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (3 cups): Essential for that irresistible stretchy and bubbly cheese topping.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Introduces a sharp, nutty flavor to elevate every bite.
- Marinara sauce (3 cups): A tomato-rich base that infuses the lasagna with vibrant color and zesty flavor.
- Fresh basil (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds freshness and bright herbal notes that cut through the richness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): The simple seasoning essentials that enhance all the other ingredients.
How to Make Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your layers are assembled. Then cook your lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they reach that perfect al dente texture—firm, but not crunchy. Drain and set them aside carefully to prevent sticking and tearing.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Sauce
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked with no pink remaining. This step builds the meaty foundation of your sauce. Once browned, drain off any excess fat for a leaner dish, then stir in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to marry the flavors beautifully.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling
While the sauce simmers, combine your ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella, the Parmesan, salt, pepper, and fresh basil in a bowl. This smooth, herby cheese mixture is going to add luscious creaminess and an herbaceous punch to the lasagna layers.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Layers
Grease your baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Start with a layer of noodles, followed by a layer of your savory meat sauce. Dollop and spread half of the ricotta mixture over the sauce, ensuring an even spread. Repeat these layers with remaining noodles, sauce, and ricotta mixture. Finish off with the remaining shredded mozzarella sprinkled generously on top for that perfect golden crust once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the cheese on top to develop a beautiful bubbly golden brown finish. Before serving, let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes—this helps it set and makes slicing much easier.
How to Serve Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
For a final touch, sprinkle some freshly chopped basil leaves or a light dusting of grated Parmesan on top just before serving. It adds a pop of color and elevates the flavor with fresh herbal brightness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich cheese and meat.
Side Dishes
Classic Beef Lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette, which adds crispness and acidity to balance the richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread also makes a fantastic accompaniment to soak up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming, personalized experience. You can also top your lasagna with a drizzle of pesto or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you want to add a touch of heat and extra herbaceous depth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Classic Beef Lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making it a perfect next-day meal that tastes even better.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully, too. Wrap the lasagna tightly in foil, or transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a convenient, comforting meal ready when you need it.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or thawed lasagna in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. For quicker reheating, microwave individual servings on medium power, checking and stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use no-boil noodles for the Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe?
Yes! No-boil noodles are a great shortcut that saves time and effort. Just be sure to add a bit more sauce so they cook properly and stay tender during baking.
What type of ground beef works best?
Lean ground beef with around 85% lean to 15% fat works well here. It provides great flavor without too much grease, which you’ll drain off during cooking.
Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
You can swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter option, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Some people prefer mixing cottage cheese with an egg to mimic ricotta’s creaminess.
How long can I freeze the Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe?
You can freeze it safely for up to 3 months. Beyond that, the quality may decline, but it will still be safe if kept at a consistent freezing temperature.
Is it better to bake covered or uncovered?
Baking covered locks in moisture and helps cook everything evenly, while finishing uncovered lets the cheese brown and get that irresistible crust. This recipe uses both steps for perfect results.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe is truly a celebration of flavors and textures that makes any meal special. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for its ease and comforting satisfyingly hearty results. Give it a try and watch your kitchen fill with irresistible aromas that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Print
Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This classic lasagna recipe features layers of tender noodles, savory ground beef simmered in marinara sauce, and a rich blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh basil. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a comforting Italian favorite perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles
- 9 lasagna noodles (traditional or no-boil)
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the lasagna later.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Mix Cheeses: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella, the grated Parmesan, chopped fresh basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a well-blended cheese filling.
- Assemble Lasagna: Grease a baking dish lightly. Begin layering by arranging a single layer of noodles, then spreading some of the meat sauce over them. Next, spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat layers until all components are used, finishing with a layer of noodles topped with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt thoroughly.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes. This will help develop a golden-brown topping on the cheese.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow it to set for easy portioning.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use part-skim ricotta and reduced-fat mozzarella.
- No-boil noodles can be used to save time, but ensure adequate sauce coverage to cook them thoroughly.
- Fresh basil adds vibrant flavor but dried basil can be substituted if unavailable.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps the layers firm up for cleaner slices.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
