Ground Beef Lasagna

Name: Ground Beef Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 9 lasagna noodles; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Enjoy a hearty and comforting dish with this classic ground beef lasagna recipe, perfect for family dinners.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-24T11:42:46.371Z

This ground beef lasagna is a family favorite, combining layers of rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and gooey cheese for a satisfying meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Layers of flavorful ground beef and savory tomato sauce
Creamy cheese blend that pulls apart beautifully
Comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul

      

A Classic Comfort Food

Lasagna is one of those timeless dishes that brings families together around the dinner table. Its layers of rich flavors and textures create a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. The combination of ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy cheese makes each bite a delight. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or just looking for a hearty meal, this lasagna is sure to impress.

The beauty of lasagna lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Want to add some vegetables? Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can enhance the texture and nutritional value. Whether you're a meat lover or prefer a vegetarian option, this recipe serves as a fantastic base for creative variations.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the greatest advantages of making lasagna is that it can be prepared in advance. You can assemble the layers and store the unbaked dish in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you have guests coming over. Simply pop it in the oven when you're ready, and let the aroma fill your home.

You can also freeze leftovers or an entire lasagna for later use. Just make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. This makes lasagna not only a delicious option but also a practical one.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your lasagna experience, consider pairing it with a fresh salad and some crusty garlic bread. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish and add a refreshing touch. Garlic bread, on the other hand, provides the perfect vehicle for scooping up any leftover sauce.

For those who enjoy a little heat, you can sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the lasagna or serve it with a side of spicy marinara. A glass of red wine also complements the flavors beautifully, making your meal even more enjoyable. Don’t forget to save some room for dessert—something light, like sorbet or a fruit salad, would be a perfect finish.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you begin to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Lasagna

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
9 lasagna noodles
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to check your ingredients before using them for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create your delicious lasagna.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Cook the Noodles

While the sauce simmers, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.

Assemble the Lasagna

In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Place three lasagna noodles on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, then a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining meat sauce and a generous topping of Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Allow the lasagna to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your homemade ground beef lasagna with a side salad or garlic bread!

Tips for the Best Lasagna

To ensure that your lasagna has the perfect consistency, avoid overcooking the noodles. They should be al dente, as they will continue to cook while baking. Under-cooked noodles help absorb the sauce's moisture without becoming mushy, giving you that ideal layered texture.

When layering your lasagna, be generous with both the meat sauce and cheese. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that each slice holds its shape when served. Additionally, using a mix of cheeses—like mozzarella for stretchiness and Parmesan for depth—will elevate the taste.

Storing and Reheating

Once your lasagna has cooled down, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-5 days, making it a great option for meal prep. To reheat, simply place slices in a microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in the oven until heated through.

If you want to freeze your lasagna, it's best to do so before baking. Assemble the layers in a disposable baking dish, wrap it tightly, and freeze. When you're ready to eat, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra time to ensure it's heated all the way through.

Variations to Try

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also try using a blend of meats, like Italian sausage and beef, to enhance the flavor. Don’t hesitate to add layers of roasted vegetables or spinach to sneak in additional nutrients.

Another fun variation is to switch up the cheese blend. Incorporating different cheeses like gouda or fontina can give your lasagna a unique flavor profile. Experimenting with herbs and spices, such as adding some crushed red pepper or fresh parsley, can also take your dish to the next level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.

→ Can I freeze lasagna?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Just cover tightly with foil and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or cream cheese can be used as substitutes for ricotta in this recipe.

→ How do I reheat leftover lasagna?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.