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Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce and Cheese

Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce and Cheese

Classic lasagna with meat sauce and cheese is a timeless dish that brings comfort and joy to family dinners. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, this classic recipe is not just filling; it’s downright crave-worthy. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this lasagna will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic lasagna is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Here’s why you’ll want to make it tonight:

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  • Layered Goodness: Each bite is packed with flavor, thanks to the careful layering of pasta, sauce, and cheese.
  • Comfort Food Classic: This dish is a staple for a reason; it’s warm, hearty, and utterly delicious.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Lasagna holds up well, making it ideal for leftovers or freezing for later.
  • Easy to Customize: Add your favorite vegetables or swap out the meat for a vegetarian option.

Ingredients

  • 9 lasagna noodles
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking

How to Make Classic Lasagna

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Stir in the marinara sauce, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  6. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce.
  7. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese, and then a layer of meat sauce. Repeat this process for the second layer.
  8. For the final layer, place the remaining noodles on top, cover with the rest of the meat sauce, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Use no-boil lasagna noodles for a quicker prep time.
  • Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
  • Let the lasagna sit before serving; this helps it hold its shape when cut.

Easy Variations

  • Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Use a mix of cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
  • Add layers of sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.

What to Serve With It

  • A simple green salad with vinaigrette.
  • Garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping into the sauce.
  • Roasted vegetables for a colorful side dish.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals.

Recipe Card

Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce and Cheese
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients:

  • 9 lasagna noodles
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Stir in the marinara sauce, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
  6. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce.
  7. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese, and then a layer of meat sauce. Repeat this process for the second layer.
  8. For the final layer, place the remaining noodles on top, cover with the rest of the meat sauce, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes: Lasagna can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.

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