The Best Ground Beef Lasagna Recipe

I still remember the first time I made homemade lasagna. I was looking for something hearty and comforting, but I wanted it to taste better than the store-bought frozen versions. I gathered a few simple ingredients—ground beef, pasta, sauce, and cheese—and got to work. When I pulled that bubbling, cheesy dish out of the oven, I knew I had found a new family favorite.

Lasagna takes a little time to put together, but it’s absolutely worth it. The layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese make this a dish that everyone loves. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep since the leftovers taste just as good the next day.

Servings	Total
8	1hr 5mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I learned this recipe through trial and error, tweaking it over the years to get the perfect balance of flavors. My first attempt was from an old cookbook, but I’ve made a few changes to make it easier and even more delicious. Now, it’s one of my go-to dishes when I want something comforting and satisfying.

Why Ground Beef Lasagna

Ground beef lasagna is a classic for a reason. It’s rich, filling, and has the perfect combination of flavors. The meat sauce is hearty, the cheese is creamy, and the noodles hold everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s a dish that can be made ahead of time, making it great for busy nights.

What Is Ground Beef Lasagna Made Of?

Lasagna is made with layers of:

• Ground beef – The base of the meat sauce, adding richness and flavor.
• Tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes – The foundation of the sauce.
• Onion and garlic – Adds depth to the sauce.
• Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that gives it that classic Italian taste.
• Ricotta cheese – Creates a creamy, cheesy layer.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully on top.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a slightly salty, nutty flavor.
• Lasagna noodles – Holds everything together.

What to Have with Ground Beef Lasagna

Lasagna is a complete meal on its own, but here are some great side dishes:

• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Caesar salad – A fresh, crisp side that balances the richness.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables – Green beans, asparagus, or zucchini pair well.

Is Ground Beef Lasagna Healthy?

Lasagna is a hearty dish, but you can make it lighter by using lean ground beef, whole wheat noodles, and part-skim cheese. Adding extra vegetables to the sauce, like spinach or mushrooms, also boosts the nutritional value.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large skillet
• Large pot for boiling noodles
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Cheese Layer:

• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Other Ingredients:

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
   • Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Meat Sauce:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
   • Add the diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
   • Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley. Stir until well blended.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Lay 3 noodles over the sauce.
   • Spread ⅓ of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
   • Sprinkle ⅓ of the mozzarella cheese on top.
   • Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of noodles topped with meat sauce and the remaining mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake the Lasagna:
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
6. Let It Rest and Serve:
   • Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
   • Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Tips

• Let it rest before slicing – This helps the layers stay together.
• Use no-boil noodles – If you’re short on time, no-boil noodles work great.
• Make it ahead – Assemble the lasagna a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready.
• Freeze leftovers – Lasagna freezes well for up to 3 months.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner lasagna.

2. Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

Classic ground beef lasagna is a timeless comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s rich, cheesy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it out, and enjoy a homemade lasagna that’s better than anything from a box!

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