Description
This Classic Lasagna recipe serves up a hearty, comforting Italian favorite loaded with layers of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this timeless dish is flavorful and satisfying with a perfect balance of savory beef, tangy marinara, and melty mozzarella and ricotta cheeses.
Ingredients
Scale
Lasagna Noodles
- Lasagna noodles – enough for 3 layers (approximately 12 noodles)
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
- Brown beef and add sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Layer noodles, cheese, and meat: In a baking dish, start with a thin layer of meat sauce, then layer noodles, ricotta cheese, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers ending with mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Allow the lasagna to rest before serving to help it set and make slicing easier.
- You can prepare the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking for convenience.
- Substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a leaner or vegetarian option.
- Use no-boil noodles if you want to save time, adjusting the sauce quantity slightly to ensure noodles cook properly.
- For a richer sauce, add diced onions and garlic while browning the beef.
