Looking for a comforting dish that brings the family together? This classic meat lasagna recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone fighting for seconds. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug.
This lasagna is a celebration of flavors and textures. The savory ground beef combined with aromatic herbs creates a sauce that perfectly complements the tender noodles and gooey cheese. Each bite is a delightful combination of flavors that will transport you straight to Italy.
The Ultimate Comfort Food
This classic meat lasagna is a dish that embodies warmth and satisfaction. Each layer offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that make it a go-to for family gatherings and special occasions.
The savory ground beef mingles seamlessly with the aromatic tomato sauce, making each bite a burst of rich flavor. The creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses bring a luscious quality to the dish, ensuring that every mouthful is both hearty and indulgent.
The Perfect Balance of Ingredients
At the heart of this lasagna are its carefully selected ingredients. The combination of ground beef, aromatic herbs like oregano and basil, and a robust marinara sauce creates a filling that is both satisfying and comforting.
Paired with perfectly cooked lasagna noodles, this dish balances the heartiness of the meat with the smoothness of the cheese. Each component works together to create a layered experience that is sure to please any palate.
Creating Layers of Flavor
Assembling the lasagna is a simple yet rewarding process. Starting with a base of meat sauce, layers of noodles, cheese filling, and more sauce are built up to create a delicious tower of flavor.
It’s essential to ensure that the layers are evenly distributed, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully during baking. This careful layering technique results in a lasagna that holds together well when sliced, presenting a beautiful display of its rich ingredients.
The Baking Process
Baking the lasagna transforms its raw ingredients into a bubbling, golden masterpiece. Covering it with aluminum foil during the initial baking phase helps to retain moisture, ensuring that the noodles cook perfectly while keeping the cheese from over-browning too soon.
Removing the foil towards the end allows the cheese to achieve that enticing golden color that everyone loves. This step also enhances the flavors, allowing the top layer to develop a slightly crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling below.
Serving Suggestions
Once the lasagna is baked to perfection, a brief cooling period makes slicing much easier. Garnishing with fresh basil adds a delightful touch, both visually and in flavor.
For a complete meal, pair this lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad. The combination creates a cozy dining atmosphere that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Nutrition Information
This classic meat lasagna not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a hearty meal, offering around 400 calories per serving. With its balanced proportions of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, it serves as a fulfilling main course that will leave everyone satisfied.
Enjoying a slice of this lasagna is akin to receiving a warm hug from the kitchen—a true testament to the power of home-cooked comfort food.
The Ultimate Comfort Food
This classic meat lasagna is hearty and rich, featuring layers of savory ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, all baked to perfection. It’s a delicious dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well and set aside.
- Assemble the Lasagna: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of meat sauce on the bottom. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the cheese mixture, and then another cup of meat sauce. Repeat layers, finishing with noodles topped with the remaining meat sauce and the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake: Cover with aluminum 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, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the lasagna 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: 6 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g