Print

Classic Beef Lasagna with Ricotta and Mozzarella

Rich layers of seasoned ground beef, velvety ricotta, melty mozzarella, and perfectly cooked lasagna noodles come together in this timeless Italian comfort dish. A golden-baked, cheesy favorite for gatherings or hearty weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Extra grated Parmesan for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Stir in marinara sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Layer 3 lasagna noodles, 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, 1/3 of the meat sauce, and a layer of mozzarella.
  6. Repeat twice, ending with meat sauce and topping with mozzarella and Parmesan.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  8. Uncover and bake another 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  9. Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
  • Use lean ground beef for a less greasy sauce.
  • Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
  • Leftovers keep well and taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef lasagna, classic lasagna, Italian pasta bake, ricotta mozzarella lasagna, hearty dinner