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 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained; Extra mozzarella cheese for topping

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A classic comfort food dish, this Ground Beef Lasagna is layered with rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked noodles, making it a family favorite.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-24T12:18:30.567Z

This Ground Beef Lasagna is not just a dish; it's a tradition in many households. With its layers of meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and gooey cheese, it's a meal that brings everyone together around the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavors that satisfy any craving
Layers of gooey cheese that stretch with every bite
Perfect for meal prep, leftovers taste even better!

      

The Heart of Comfort Food

Lasagna has long been celebrated as a quintessential comfort food, and this Ground Beef Lasagna is no exception. With its layers of hearty meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender noodles, it embodies the warmth of home-cooked meals. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a family gathering, this dish brings everyone together, creating memories that linger long after the last bite.

The beauty of lasagna lies in its versatility. You can customize the meat sauce with additional vegetables or spices to suit your family’s taste. This recipe provides a solid foundation, allowing you to experiment and make it your own. The satisfaction of serving a dish that is both comforting and delicious makes it a cherished recipe in any household.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef Lasagna is its suitability for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. This means you can enjoy a hearty homemade meal even on your busiest days. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a delicious dinner with minimal effort.

Leftovers are another delightful bonus. The flavors of the lasagna deepen and meld together after a day in the fridge. Reheating it the next day will surprise you with how it tastes even better! This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to have a comforting meal ready at a moment's notice.

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your Ground Beef Lasagna experience, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the lasagna. The crispness of the salad provides a perfect balance, enhancing the overall meal without overwhelming the palate.

For beverage options, a medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, complements the robust flavors of the meat sauce beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon can cleanse the palate and make the dining experience even more enjoyable.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

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

For the Cheese Mixture

15 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
Extra mozzarella cheese for topping

Instructions

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Simmer for about 20 minutes.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of meat sauce in a baking dish. Place three lasagna noodles on top, followed by half of the cheese mixture and a layer of mozzarella.

Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles and remaining meat sauce. Top with extra mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Storage Tips

If you have any lasagna left over, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven. For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

When reheating frozen lasagna, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents the edges from becoming overdone while the center remains cold. Reheat it at 375°F (190°C) until heated through, and enjoy the convenience of a home-cooked meal at your fingertips.

Garnishing Ideas

To add a touch of elegance to your lasagna, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs. Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor. This simple addition can transform your dish into a restaurant-quality meal, impressing your family and guests alike.

Another delightful way to elevate your lasagna is by serving it with a side of garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky goodness of the bread complements the rich flavors of the lasagna and is perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce. It’s a classic pairing that never goes out of style.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Can I freeze leftover lasagna?

Absolutely! Just make sure it's well-wrapped. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with lasagna?

A simple green salad and garlic bread make great side dishes.

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter version of this dish.