Classic Homemade Beef Lasagna

Servings

8 servings

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time

50 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

Meat Sauce

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage, casing removed

• 1 medium onion, finely diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp thyme

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Cheese Filling

• 15 oz (425 g) ricotta cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Lasagna

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package directions

• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meat Sauce

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Cook ground beef and sausage until browned.

3. Add onion and cook for 4–5 minutes.

4. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

5. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

6. Simmer for 25–30 minutes until thick and flavorful.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a bowl, combine:

   • Ricotta cheese

   • Egg

   • 2 cups mozzarella

   • Parmesan

   • Parsley

2. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Layer:

   • Lasagna noodles

   • Cheese mixture

   • Meat sauce

   • Mozzarella cheese

4. Repeat layers until ingredients are used.

5. Finish with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Cover with foil.

2. Bake for 35 minutes.

3. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

4. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 620 kcal

• Protein: 38 g

• Fat: 33 g

• Carbohydrates: 42 g

• Fiber: 4 g

Tips for Perfect Lasagna

• Let the sauce simmer longer for deeper flavor.

• Use freshly grated mozzarella for better melting.

• Allow the lasagna to rest before cutting to keep layers intact.

• Prepare a day ahead for even richer flavor.

• Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This classic homemade beef lasagna features tender pasta sheets layered with rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and plenty of melted mozzarella cheese. The golden, bubbly top and hearty layers make it the ultimate comfort food for family dinners, gatherings, and special occasions. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of savory beef, creamy cheese, and flavorful tomato sauce.