Easy Beef Lasagna Recipe

When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as a hearty, cheesy lasagna. This Easy Beef Lasagna recipe simplifies the process, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Layers of tender pasta, rich beef sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella come together to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Stick around for the complete recipe, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make this lasagna a guaranteed hit every time you make it.

this Recipe

What Is Beef Lasagna?

Beef lasagna is a traditional Italian-American dish made by layering sheets of pasta with a rich meat sauce, cheese, and sometimes béchamel sauce. It’s then baked until bubbly and golden, creating a casserole that’s hearty, filling, and packed with flavor. While lasagna can be customized with different meats, vegetables, and sauces, this recipe focuses on the classic beef version, which is often a crowd-pleaser due to its comforting, familiar flavors.

Ingredients List for Easy Beef Lasagna

To make this delicious beef lasagna, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef: A lean 80/20 blend is ideal for a flavorful yet not too greasy sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for a flavorful, aromatic base.
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: Forms the base of the rich meat sauce.
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Adds more tomato flavor and liquid to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme for classic Italian flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt: To season the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Optional, to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 12 lasagna noodles: No-boil noodles can save time, but regular lasagna noodles work just as well.
• 2 cups ricotta cheese: For a creamy, rich layer.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor to the cheese mixture.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture.
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, melted cheese layer.
• Fresh basil or parsley: Optional, for garnish and added freshness.

Ingredients List for Easy Beef Lasagna (Continued)

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional, for a bit of heat in the sauce.
• ¼ cup red wine: Optional, adds depth of flavor to the meat sauce.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Optional, to mix into the ricotta cheese layer for added flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

Lasagna is a versatile dish, and this recipe can be easily customized to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant instead. Use vegetable broth instead of red wine or beef broth for the sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles, available in most grocery stores.
• Cheese Variations: Mix in other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes, or omit them altogether if you prefer a milder dish.
• Herb Additions: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme can be added to the sauce for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make this easy beef lasagna step by step:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, skip this step.
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Add Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Prepare the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. If using, stir in the red wine. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or beef broth.
5. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, and chopped parsley (if using). Mix until well combined.
6. Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer 3-4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers (sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella) two more times. Finish with a final layer of sauce and the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Bake the Lasagna: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (sprayed with a little cooking spray to prevent sticking). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly browned.
8. Let It Rest: Once the lasagna is done baking, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Cut into squares and serve hot.

How to Cook Easy Beef Lasagna: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking lasagna is easy when you follow these tips for success:

1. Choosing the Right Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend (80% lean meat, 20% fat) is ideal because it’s flavorful without being too greasy. If you’re using a leaner meat, you might need to add a bit more olive oil when browning the beef.
2. Cooking the Sauce: Allow the meat sauce to simmer so the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens. This will prevent the lasagna from becoming too watery.
3. Layering Tips: When layering, start with sauce on the bottom of the pan to prevent the noodles from sticking. Ensure even layers so the lasagna cooks evenly.
4. Baking Tips: Covering the lasagna with foil for the first half of baking helps to prevent the cheese from burning. Removing the foil for the last part of baking allows the cheese to brown nicely.
5. Resting the Lasagna: Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking makes it easier to slice and serve. The resting time lets the layers set and the cheese firm up slightly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your beef lasagna turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the Noodles: If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, undercook them slightly since they will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked noodles can become mushy.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Not allowing the lasagna to rest before cutting can result in sloppy, hard-to-serve slices. Always let it sit for 10-15 minutes after baking.
• Not Draining Excess Fat: If your ground beef is very fatty, drain off the excess fat before adding the tomatoes. This will prevent the sauce from being too greasy.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Taste the meat sauce before assembling the lasagna and adjust the seasoning as needed. Under-seasoned sauce can make the whole dish taste bland.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Lasagna is a comforting dish, but you can elevate its presentation with a few thoughtful touches:

• Serve in Slices: Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices of lasagna, and serve each slice with a spatula to keep the layers intact.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to each serving.
• Pair with a Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich lasagna.
• Bread on the Side: Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the extra sauce.

How to Serve Easy Beef Lasagna

Here are some ideas for serving your Easy Beef Lasagna:

• Family Style: Serve the lasagna directly from the baking dish at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• With Italian Sides: Pair the lasagna with Italian-inspired sides like garlic bread, bruschetta, or a Caprese salad.
• **For a Crowd**: This recipe can easily be doubled to feed a larger group. Make two pans of lasagna and bake them side by side.

Presentation Ideas for Easy Beef Lasagna

Even though lasagna is a casual dish, it can still be served with style:

• Rustic Look: Serve the lasagna in a ceramic or cast-iron baking dish for a rustic, homey presentation.
• Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, cut the lasagna into individual portions and plate them separately with a garnish of fresh herbs.
• Serve with a Sauce Drizzle: For added flavor, drizzle a little extra marinara sauce over each slice before serving.

Easy Beef Lasagna Recipe Tips

To ensure your Easy Beef Lasagna turns out delicious every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Make Ahead: Lasagna is a great make-ahead dish. Assemble it the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature before baking or add extra time if baking directly from the fridge.
• Freezing Option: Lasagna freezes well. You can freeze the unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
• Reheating Leftovers: Reheat leftover lasagna in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
A: Yes! Lasagna can be assembled up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, then bake it when you’re ready to serve. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave, or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze lasagna?
A: Yes, you can freeze lasagna either before or after baking. To freeze unbaked lasagna, assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. To freeze baked lasagna, cool it completely, wrap tightly, and freeze. Reheat in the oven until heated through.

Q: Can I use different cheeses in lasagna?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like provolone, fontina, or gouda in place of or in addition to mozzarella and Parmesan.

Q: What can I serve with lasagna?
A: Lasagna pairs well with a variety of sides, including garlic bread, a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple pasta salad.

Conclusion

Easy Beef Lasagna is a timeless, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, this lasagna is sure to become a family favorite. By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a comforting, homemade lasagna that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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