Easy Beef Lasagna Recipe

Lasagna is a timeless favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. This Easy Beef Lasagna recipe is perfect for those who want a delicious, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal for friends, this lasagna is guaranteed to impress.

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Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: While the meat sauce is simmering, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a sheet of parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 4: In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.

Step 5: To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with a final layer of meat sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to cut into neat slices. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Note:

This lasagna can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from the refrigerator, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the lasagna.

Tips:

1. Noodle Choice: No-boil lasagna noodles can be used to save time. Just make sure to add a bit more sauce to ensure they soften properly.
2. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian lasagna.
3. Cheese Variations: Feel free to add or substitute cheeses. Provolone or fontina can add a unique twist to the traditional mozzarella and Parmesan blend.
4. Storage: Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Prep Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

50 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 800mg

Conclusion

Easy Beef Lasagna is a classic dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. With its layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, it's a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the comforting warmth of this homemade lasagna, and make every dinner special.

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