Beef Lasagna Recipe
Description
Looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love? Our Beef Lasagna Recipe is the perfect choice! This classic Italian dish features layers of rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and gooey cheese, all nestled between tender lasagna noodles. Follow our detailed instructions to create a delicious lasagna that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients for Beef Lasagna Recipe
Instructions for Beef Lasagna Recipe
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Cook Lasagna Noodles: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
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Layer Lasagna: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers twice more, ending with a final layer of meat sauce and remaining mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle the top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
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Bake Lasagna: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 600kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 30g47%
- Saturated Fat 15g75%
- Cholesterol 125mg42%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 10g
- Protein 35g70%
- Vitamin A 1000 IU
- Calcium 400 mg
- Iron 4 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Variation Options for Beef Lasagna Recipe:
- Vegetable Lasagna: Substitute the ground beef with a variety of sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach.
- Spicy Lasagna: Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Lasagna: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles.
- Cheese Lovers: Add layers of different cheeses like provolone or gouda for extra richness.
Cooking Tips for Beef Lasagna Recipe:
- Noodles: To prevent sticking, lay the cooked lasagna noodles flat on a baking sheet.
- Sauce: Simmer the meat sauce longer for a richer flavor.
- Cheese: For a creamier texture, use whole milk ricotta and mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions for Beef Lasagna Recipe:
- Salad: Serve with a crisp Caesar salad for a balanced meal.
- Garlic Bread: Pair with homemade garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a robust red wine like Chianti or Merlot.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Yes, you can freeze baked or unbaked lasagna. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating.
You can substitute cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and Greek yogurt.
Ensure you simmer the meat sauce until thickened and use well-drained ricotta cheese.
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe.
Broil the lasagna for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Use high-quality crushed tomatoes or San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor.
