Ground Beef Lasagna

Name: Ground Beef Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 9 lasagna noodles; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A classic comfort food, this Ground Beef Lasagna is layered with rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta, making it a favorite for family dinners.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2025-12-24T11:33:45.057Z

This Ground Beef Lasagna recipe is a family favorite that combines the flavors of rich ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and a cheesy top layer. It's perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Layers of hearty beef and creamy cheese create a satisfying meal.
Perfectly balanced flavors with a hint of Italian herbs.
Great for leftovers, as it tastes even better the next day!

      

A Layered Delight

Lasagna is one of those dishes that brings everyone together around the table, making it an instant hit for family dinners or gatherings. Each layer is a delicious reminder of why this Italian classic is beloved worldwide. The combination of savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheeses creates a symphony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds.

This Ground Beef Lasagna is not just about taste; it's also about texture. The tender noodles provide the perfect foundation for the hearty meat sauce, while the melty cheese adds a luxurious creaminess. Each bite is an experience, making it hard to resist going back for seconds.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best aspects of this lasagna recipe is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. This means you can enjoy homemade comfort food without the hassle of cooking every day. Simply reheat and serve for a convenient and satisfying meal.

When prepared in advance, the flavors of the lasagna meld beautifully, often resulting in an even more delicious dish the next day. Whether you enjoy it for lunch or dinner, having a homemade lasagna on hand is a game changer for busy weeknights.

Customizing Your Lasagna

While this recipe features ground beef, feel free to customize it to your liking. You can substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even go vegetarian by adding layers of grilled vegetables or mushrooms. The variations are endless, allowing you to create a lasagna that suits your dietary preferences.

Additionally, consider experimenting with different types of cheese. Incorporating ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan provides a wonderful blend, but you might also add some goat cheese or feta for a unique twist. Each alteration can transform this classic dish into something new and exciting.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lasagna

9 lasagna noodles
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Combine all ingredients to create a delicious lasagna.

Instructions

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, 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 Cheese Filling

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

Assemble the Lasagna

In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, and then a layer of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers, finishing with meat sauce and topping with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake the Lasagna

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious homemade lasagna!

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your lasagna, you may find yourself with delicious leftovers. Storing them properly is key to maintaining freshness. Allow the lasagna to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months, making it a perfect option for meal prepping.

When reheating, ensure it’s warmed thoroughly to retain its moisture and flavor. You can use the oven or microwave, but adding a splash of water or sauce can prevent it from drying out during the reheating process. Enjoying lasagna for lunch the next day is always a treat!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your lasagna experience, consider pairing it with a fresh salad and some garlic bread. A simple green salad with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lasagna. Additionally, garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf is perfect for scooping up any extra sauce on your plate.

For beverages, a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, complements the flavors beautifully. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a classic Italian soda can also be delightful accompaniments.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ Can I freeze lasagna?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked lasagna for up to 3 months. Just ensure it's well covered.

→ What can I serve with lasagna?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with lasagna.

→ How do I reheat leftover lasagna?

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