Classic Beef Lasagna is my go-to recipe for family dinners. The moment I start preparing Classic Beef Lasagna, the kitchen fills with delicious smells that make everyone eager to eat. I gather all the ingredients: lean ground beef, lasagna noodles, and rich tomato sauce. As I chop the onions and garlic, I can already picture my family gathered around the table, ready to dig in. There’s something special about making Classic Beef Lasagna that feels like a warm hug for the soul.
Preparing the Layers
Once everything is ready, I cook the ground beef in my trusty cast iron skillet. The beef sizzles as it browns, and I can’t resist tasting a little. Then, I mix in the spaghetti sauce and let it simmer. While the sauce bubbles, I boil the lasagna noodles. The smell of garlic fills the air, making my mouth water. Layering the noodles, meat, and cheese feels like an art. I place three noodles in my casserole dish, add a generous scoop of sauce, and sprinkle a handful of mozzarella cheese. With each layer, I think about how much my family loves this Classic Beef Lasagna.
Baking to Perfection
I pop the assembled dish into the oven, and the magic begins. The cheese melts and bubbles, creating a golden crust that makes my heart race. As it bakes, I clean up the kitchen, humming a little tune. After thirty minutes, I pull the lasagna out, letting it rest for ten minutes. The layers settle perfectly, and I can hardly wait to serve it. Just before slicing, I sprinkle some parsley on top for a touch of color. It looks beautiful, just like I imagined.
The Best Family Meal
As I serve the Classic Beef Lasagna, my family gathers around the table, their faces lighting up at the sight. I love watching them take that first bite, their eyes closing in delight. It’s a simple meal, but it brings us together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, Classic Beef Lasagna is always a hit. I know this dish will stay in our family for years to come, filling our hearts and bellies with warmth and love.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Classic Beef Lasagna
- Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh ground beef and high-quality lasagna noodles. The quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the overall flavor of the dish.
- Flavor Boosters: Consider adding a splash of red wine to the beef mixture for enhanced depth of flavor. You can also include Italian herbs like oregano or basil for extra aromatics.
- Layering Tips: When assembling the lasagna, ensure each noodle layer is evenly covered with sauce to prevent dry spots. A small spoonful of sauce on the bottom of the casserole dish can help the first layer of noodles from sticking.
- Vegetable Additions: For a healthier twist, add sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms between the layers. This not only adds nutrition but also enhances the flavor profile.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting period after baking! Allowing the lasagna to sit for about 10 minutes helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
- Make-Ahead Option: This lasagna can be assembled in advance and refrigerated overnight. Just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
- Freezing Tips: If you have leftovers, you can freeze individual portions. Wrap them tightly in foil or store in airtight containers for a quick meal later.
Classic Beef Lasagna
4
servings15
minutes30
minutes500
kcal10
minutes55
minutesIndulge in a hearty, family-friendly Classic Beef Lasagna that’s both easy to make and utterly delicious! This foolproof recipe layers savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese between tender lasagna noodles, all baked to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this lasagna is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll love how customizable and satisfying this dish is. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this mouthwatering, comforting classic that’s free from ricotta and packed with flavor!
Ingredients
- Proteins and Vegetables
7 oz lean ground beef
1/2 medium white onion finely chopped
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Sauces and Cheeses
1.5 cups tomato-based spaghetti sauce
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- Pasta
4 regular lasagna noodles
- Alternative Ingredients:
Ground beef → ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option
Lasagna noodles → gluten-free lasagna noodles for gluten sensitivity
Parmesan cheese → Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor
Mozzarella cheese → dairy-free mozzarella for lactose intolerance
White onion → shallots for a milder taste
Water → beef broth for richer flavor
Directions
- Preheat Oven – Start by setting your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s thoroughly heated for baking the lasagna to perfection. Cook the lasagna sheets in a large pot of boiling water according to the package instructions, typically around 10 minutes, until they are al dente. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside for layering.
- Cook Beef Mixture – In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion, minced garlic, and black pepper. This should take about 8-10 minutes. After the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat to maintain a healthier dish. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir in the spaghetti sauce, water, grated Parmesan, and 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. *(Optional: Add a splash of red wine for deeper flavor.)*
- Assemble the Lasagna – Lightly spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Begin by placing three lasagna noodles evenly at the bottom. Spread one-third of the meat and sauce mixture over the noodles. Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with the remaining meat mixture on top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella evenly over the top layer to create a deliciously cheesy finish.
- Bake – Place the assembled lasagna in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. *(Optional: For a golden-brown top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.)*
- Rest and Serve – Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- Cast Iron Skillet
- casserole dish
Notes
- For the best results, use fresh ground beef and high-quality lasagna noodles to enhance the flavors. Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve. Pair this classic lasagna with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Feel free to add sautéed spinach or mushrooms between the layers for extra vegetables, or sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving to add a burst of freshness. To make this dish ahead of time, assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it overnight, then bake when ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 500kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Potassium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Vitamin A: 1000IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 200mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQs- Classic Beef Lasagna
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, no-boil noodles work great! Just follow the package instructions for layering and adjust the liquid in the sauce slightly to ensure everything cooks properly.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives are excellent substitutes. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly.
How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?
To avoid excess moisture, make sure to drain any excess fat after cooking the beef. Additionally, using a thicker spaghetti sauce can help keep the lasagna from getting watery.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also use plant-based cheese for a dairy-free option.
How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover the lasagna well to keep it fresh. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
