Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. It’s all about layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. This classic beef lasagna is sure to impress your guests and fill your home with mouthwatering aromas.
Imagine a hearty dish that combines savory ground beef, tangy marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses that melt together beautifully. Each bite offers a delightful taste experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
The Ultimate Comfort Food
Lasagna stands out as a comforting dish, perfect for gatherings and family dinners. Composed of multiple layers, it showcases a delightful combination of savory ground beef, creamy cheeses, and rich marinara sauce.
Its warm and inviting aroma fills the kitchen, making it hard to resist. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of textures, from the slightly crunchy pasta to the gooey cheese. This layered masterpiece is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together.
Layers of Flavor
The beauty of lasagna lies in its layers, each contributing to the overall flavor profile. At the bottom, a generous layer of meat sauce provides a robust foundation, followed by sheets of tender lasagna noodles that cradle a creamy ricotta filling.
As you reach the top, a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a golden crust, inviting you to dig in. The combination of herbs like oregano enhances the dish, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while baking.
Aromatic Experience
From the moment it goes into the oven, the aroma of the lasagna wafts through the home, evoking comforting memories and anticipation. The scent of simmering beef and herbs is truly irresistible.
When it’s finally time to serve, the sight of the golden, bubbling cheese is enough to make mouths water. Garnishing with fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also infuses every slice with a hint of freshness.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This deliciously layered beef lasagna is versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, it promises to impress everyone at the table.
It’s easy to prepare in advance, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your guests rather than slaving away in the kitchen. Simply bake it ahead of time and reheat when it’s time to serve.
Feeding a Crowd
One of the many advantages of lasagna is its ability to serve a crowd. With a single dish, you can provide a hearty meal that satisfies even the heartiest of appetites. This layered delight can generally yield eight generous slices, making it perfect for family gatherings or potluck dinners.
Moreover, the leftovers are just as delicious, if not better, the next day. The flavors have more time to develop, making for an easy and satisfying lunch or dinner option.
A Dish to Remember
As you gather around the table to enjoy this classic beef lasagna, you’ll create lasting memories. It’s not just a meal; it’s a dish that inspires laughter, conversation, and cherished moments with loved ones.
Every bite reminds you of the warmth of home and the joy of sharing hearty food with family and friends. This is what makes lasagna a timeless favorite, perfect for any occasion and sure to please all palates.
The Ultimate Comfort Food
This classic beef lasagna is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, featuring layers of beef, luscious ricotta, and gooey mozzarella. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, ready to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in marinara sauce and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, a layer of mozzarella cheese, and then more meat sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with noodles and remaining meat sauce.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g