Ground Beef Lasagna

Name: Ground Beef Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 9 lasagna noodles; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This hearty ground beef lasagna is a classic dish that combines layers of rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and plenty of melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2025-12-24T12:45:39.369Z

This lasagna recipe has been in my family for generations, each layer telling a story of comfort and love. It's a dish that brings everyone together around the table, making any occasion special.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Layers of rich, satisfying flavors that comfort the soul
Perfectly balanced textures with creamy cheese and hearty meat
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or spices

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

Lasagna is the epitome of comfort food, and this ground beef version takes it to the next level. With its layers of savory meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and gooey mozzarella, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just craving something hearty, this lasagna is the perfect solution. It's a meal that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart.

What sets this lasagna apart is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences. Want to sneak in some veggies? Add spinach or zucchini to the meat sauce. Prefer a bit of heat? A dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile. This dish is all about making it your own while enjoying the classic flavors that have stood the test of time.

Cooking Tips for Success

When making lasagna, the quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final result. Opt for high-quality ground beef and fresh herbs to enhance the flavors. If you can, use homemade tomato sauce for a richer taste. This extra effort will make your lasagna stand out and impress your guests.

Don't rush the layers! Spreading the sauces and cheeses evenly is crucial for even cooking and flavor distribution. Take your time assembling the dish, and don't be afraid to add an extra layer of cheese. After all, more cheese means more deliciousness! Remember to let the lasagna cool for a few minutes after baking; this helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.

Storage and Reheating

Lasagna stores beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. After baking, allow the lasagna to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Just be sure to label it with the date so you know when it was made.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze. If frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. To reheat, place the lasagna in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. Cover it with foil to prevent the top from burning, and remove the foil for the last few minutes to restore that delightful, cheesy crust.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

9 lasagna noodles
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.

Instructions

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 20 minutes.

Make the Béchamel Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Noodles

Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Assemble the Lasagna

In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by noodles, béchamel sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with béchamel and mozzarella on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your homemade lasagna with a side salad and garlic bread!

Nutritional Information

Ground beef lasagna is not only delicious but can also be quite nutritious when prepared mindfully. A serving typically provides a good source of protein, calcium, and essential vitamins from the tomatoes and herbs. If you're looking to make it even healthier, consider using lean ground turkey or adding a variety of vegetables to the meat sauce. This way, you can enjoy a hearty meal without compromising your health goals.

For those conscious about calories, be mindful of portion sizes when serving. One slice of lasagna can be quite filling, especially when paired with a fresh salad. By complementing the dish with lighter sides, you can enjoy a satisfying, balanced meal that keeps you energized throughout the day.

Serving Suggestions

Ground beef lasagna pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread is another classic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

For a complete Italian experience, consider serving a light dessert like tiramisu or panna cotta after your lasagna. These sweet treats will round off your meal beautifully, leaving your guests satisfied and happy. Hosting a lasagna night? Encourage everyone to bring their favorite dessert to share!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready.

→ Can I freeze lasagna?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Just cover well and bake from frozen, adding extra time.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version.

→ How long does leftover lasagna last?

Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.