Go Back
+ servings
Classic Easy Meat Lasagna Recipe

Classic Easy Meat Lasagna Recipe for Cozy Family Nights

Enjoy this Classic Easy Meat Lasagna Recipe, a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings with layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheeses.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Lasagna Noodles Choose fresh for softer texture or dry for convenience.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 2 tablespoon Olive Oil Adds richness and prevents sticking during cooking.
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Main protein source; turkey or meat alternatives offer lighter options.
  • 1 cup Onion, finely chopped Builds sweetness and depth in the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoon Garlic, minced Elevates flavor; garlic powder works as a quick substitute.
  • 3 cups Tomato Sauce Forms the base of your meat sauce; swap in crushed tomatoes for a twist.
  • 2 tablespoon Tomato Paste Thickens the sauce and enhances the flavor potency.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt for sauce Essential for balancing flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt for pasta water
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped Offers a fresh note; basil is a great alternative.
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 2 cups Ricotta Cheese Provides creaminess; cottage cheese can lighten it up.
  • cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded Gives that perfect gooey layer; use provolone for different taste.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Adds nuttiness; consider using Pecorino for a more intense flavor.
  • 1 large Egg, beaten Helps bind the cheese mix together.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water, then cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the noodles and toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté 1 cup of finely chopped onion and 2 tablespoons of minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Next, add 1 pound of ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then stir in 3 cups of tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley. Let this simmer for about 15 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese, ¾ cup of the shredded mozzarella, ¼ cup of the grated Parmesan, 1 beaten egg, and the remaining parsley. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture, then more meat sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce topped with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  5. Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
  6. Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This lasagna is perfect for make-ahead meals and serves well for family gatherings.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!