Ground Beef Lasagna
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This hearty Ground Beef Lasagna is a classic comfort food that layers rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked noodles for a satisfying meal.
Lasagna is a beloved dish that brings families together. This Ground Beef Lasagna is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Layers of cheesy goodness that will satisfy any cheese lover
- Robust and flavorful ground beef sauce that warms your soul
- A make-ahead dish that tastes even better the next day
The Perfect Comfort Food
Ground Beef Lasagna is the epitome of comfort food, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures that warms the heart. The layers of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese create a satisfying dish that appeals to all ages. It's the kind of meal that invites family and friends to gather around the table, making it perfect for both special occasions and everyday dinners.
This lasagna not only fills the belly but also comforts the soul. The aroma of simmering meat sauce and melted cheese wafting through your home is enough to make anyone feel cozy and cared for. If you're looking for a dish that can evoke nostalgia and warmth, this Ground Beef Lasagna will certainly do the trick.
A Versatile Dish
One of the greatest things about lasagna is its versatility. While this recipe focuses on a hearty ground beef filling, you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Consider swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or incorporate vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Additionally, if you're feeding a crowd or preparing for meal prep, lasagna is an excellent choice. It stores well in the fridge and even freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade meals on busy days. Just reheat the individual portions, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time.
Tips for the Best Lasagna
To achieve the best results with your Ground Beef Lasagna, it's essential to follow a few key tips. Start with quality ingredients, particularly the tomatoes for your sauce. Using San Marzano tomatoes or other high-quality crushed tomatoes can elevate the flavor of your meat sauce significantly.
Don't skip the resting time after baking! Allowing the lasagna to sit for about 10 minutes before slicing helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall presentation. Trust us; this small step makes a big difference!
Ingredients
Lasagna Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process.
Instructions
Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat with chopped onion and minced garlic. Drain excess fat. Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
Mix the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well blended.
Assemble the Lasagna
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, then a layer of the ricotta mixture, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan on top.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
For best results, let the lasagna rest before serving to allow the layers to set.
Storing and Reheating
Lasagna is a fantastic make-ahead meal, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. After assembling, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to freeze it, wrap it well and store it in the freezer for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your lasagna, thaw it in the fridge overnight if frozen. To reheat, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually about 30-40 minutes. If you prefer a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions
To round out your meal, serve your Ground Beef Lasagna with a fresh side salad and garlic bread. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna beautifully and adds a refreshing crunch.
For a touch of elegance, consider pairing your lasagna with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot. The tannins in the wine balance the richness of the cheese and meat, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
→ Can I freeze lasagna?
Absolutely! Lasagna can be frozen before or after baking. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
→ What can I serve with lasagna?
A simple green salad and garlic bread pair perfectly with lasagna.
→ How do I store leftover lasagna?
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ground Beef Lasagna
This hearty Ground Beef Lasagna is a classic comfort food that layers rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked noodles for a satisfying meal.
Created by: Paige Sullivan
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Lasagna Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat with chopped onion and minced garlic. Drain excess fat. Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well blended.
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, then a layer of the ricotta mixture, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan on top.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 22g