Classic Italian Beef Lasagna

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb Italian sausage (optional, for extra flavor)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried basil)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp sugar (optional, for balancing acidity)
Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Cheese Mixture:

1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Assembly:

12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
Garlic bread (for serving)

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat Sauce:

In a large skillet, cook ground beef and sausage over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Simmer the sauce for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well.
Assemble the Lasagna:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer with 3 lasagna noodles, 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, 1/3 of the meat sauce, and 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese.
Repeat layers twice, finishing with mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake & Serve:

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve hot with garlic bread and enjoy!
This Classic Italian Beef Lasagna is pure comfort food perfection!