Classic Easy Beef Lasagna

Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food—a delightful layering of rich, savory meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta sheets that comes together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug. This Classic Easy Beef Lasagna recipe captures all those luscious flavors with straightforward steps, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will guide you through creating a hearty, satisfying meal that your whole family will love.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This beef lasagna stands out because it strikes the perfect balance between ease and flavor. With simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it took hours in the oven. The meat sauce is rich and aromatic, seasoned just right to complement the creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella layers. Plus, it uses ground beef that meets dietary standards, ensuring everyone can enjoy it without worry. The recipe doesn’t require making pasta from scratch, which saves time without compromising on taste. If you’ve ever been intimidated by lasagna, this recipe breaks it down into manageable steps and unlocks a classic favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (ensure it’s from a trusted source that meets dietary standards)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 12 lasagna noodles, uncooked
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme
• Olive oil, for sautéing

How To Make Classic Easy Beef Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Next, stir in the marinara sauce and diced tomatoes. Add the Italian seasoning, half a teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, remaining half teaspoon of salt, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until creamy and smooth. This mixture adds a luscious texture and helps bind the layers.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to cool and prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking. Lay 3 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly.

Spread one-third of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by one-third of the meat sauce. Sprinkle about one-third of the mozzarella cheese over the top.

Repeat this layering process two more times: noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella. For the final layer, after the last noodles, spread the remaining meat sauce, mozzarella cheese, and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent the cheese from burning) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This step helps the layers set and makes slicing easier. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread.

Expert Tips

• Use no-boil noodles: For an even easier version, swap regular noodles for no-boil lasagna noodles to skip the boiling step.
• Drain excess fat: Draining the fat from the cooked beef ensures your lasagna isn’t greasy.
• Let it rest: Resting the lasagna after baking helps it hold its shape when sliced.
• Customize the cheese: Feel free to add or substitute part of the mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different cheese profile.
• Make ahead: Lasagna can be assembled a day in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil or oregano can brighten the meat sauce if you have them on hand.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetable boost: Add layers of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Spicy kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat sauce for a little heat.
• Cheese blend: Mix ricotta with cottage cheese or use vegan cheese alternatives if desired.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or thinly sliced eggplant as a noodle substitute.
• Swap meat: Use ground lamb or turkey instead of beef for a different protein profile.
• Extra saucy: Increase the amount of marinara sauce for a saucier lasagna experience.

How to Store Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

For longer storage, lasagna freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

FAQ

Can I use pre-cooked or leftover ground beef in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you have pre-cooked ground beef, simply warm it with the marinara sauce and seasonings, then proceed with the layering as usual. This can save time and reduce prep work.

Do I have to boil the lasagna noodles?

If you’re using traditional lasagna noodles, yes, boiling them until al dente is recommended to ensure tenderness in the final dish. However, you can also use no-boil noodles, which can be layered directly in the dish with extra sauce to help them cook properly during baking.

Can I make this lasagna vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust the seasonings accordingly, and you’ll still have a delicious, comforting lasagna.

What’s the best way to prevent the lasagna from being watery?

Drain the diced tomatoes well before adding them to the sauce, and don’t skip draining excess fat from the cooked beef. Also, avoid adding too much extra liquid during assembly. Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps excess moisture absorb, improving texture.

Conclusion

This Classic Easy Beef Lasagna recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients with straightforward steps to deliver a dish bursting with flavor and warmth. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or anytime you crave a hearty meal that feels special without complicated prep. With its rich meat sauce, creamy cheese layers, and perfectly cooked noodles, this lasagna hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s adaptable to suit your tastes and dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the timeless comfort of homemade lasagna right at your table!