Description
A hearty and comforting Classic Meat Lasagna layered with rich meat sauce, herbed ricotta, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep — this homemade lasagna delivers authentic Italian flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef: provides a hearty, savory base
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage: adds spice and richness
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped: for aromatic sweetness
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: boosts savory flavor
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: the main tomato base
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: thickens and deepens flavor
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning: adds herbaceous Italian flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste: essential seasoning
- 15 oz ricotta cheese: creamy cheese layer
- 1 large egg: binds the ricotta mixture
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: adds salty depth
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: for melty topping
- 9 lasagna noodles (boiled or oven-ready): creates structured layers
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, sauté onion in olive oil until soft. Add ground beef and sausage, cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic, cook for 1 minute. Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20–30 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- If using regular noodles, cook them until al dente. Drain and lay flat on parchment.
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a 9×13 baking dish. Layer noodles, sauce, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat for 2–3 layers, finishing with sauce and mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let lasagna rest for 15–20 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.
Notes
- Let the lasagna rest before slicing to avoid messy layers.
- Use oven-ready noodles for convenience, but ensure sauce is slightly runny.
- Make ahead and refrigerate or freeze for easy meals later.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: classic meat lasagna, homemade lasagna, Italian lasagna, beef lasagna, comfort food, baked pasta, family dinner