Ground Beef Lasagna

Name: Ground Beef Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 lasagna noodles; 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 24 ounces marinara sauce; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and comforting dish, this ground beef lasagna is layered with rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2025-12-24T12:18:30.277Z

This ground beef lasagna is a classic Italian-American dish that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. Each layer combines flavors and textures that create a perfect balance, making it a family favorite.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and flavorful meat sauce that melds beautifully with cheese
Layers of gooey mozzarella and creamy ricotta for ultimate indulgence
Perfect for leftovers, tastes even better the next day!

      

The Heart of Comfort Food

Lasagna is often regarded as the quintessential comfort food, and for good reason. With its layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and tender pasta, each bite is a warm embrace. This ground beef lasagna recipe elevates the classic dish by incorporating a savory meat sauce that simmers to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether it's a chilly evening or a gathering with friends, this dish warms the heart and nourishes the soul.

The beauty of lasagna lies not only in its taste but also in its adaptability. You can customize the filling, switch up the meats, or even go vegetarian with roasted vegetables. This recipe serves as the perfect foundation, allowing you to experiment while ensuring delicious results. Each layer invites creativity, making it a fun dish to prepare with family or friends.

Perfect for Family Dinners

Gathering around the dinner table for a hearty meal is a cherished tradition for many families. This ground beef lasagna is an ideal centerpiece, capable of serving a crowd while still being easy to prepare. It can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more quality moments with loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen.

When it comes to meal prep, this lasagna shines brightly. Not only does it store well in the refrigerator, but the flavors deepen and improve when reheated. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights or for those times when you want to ensure leftovers are just as delightful as the first serving.

Tips for the Best Lasagna

To achieve the ultimate lasagna, consider using fresh herbs in addition to dried ones for a burst of flavor. Fresh basil and oregano elevate the dish, providing an aromatic quality that dried herbs sometimes lack. Additionally, letting the lasagna rest after baking is crucial; it allows the layers to set, making slicing easier and the presentation more attractive.

Another tip for enhancing your lasagna is to add a layer of vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, between the cheese and meat layers. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a delightful texture. Don’t shy away from experimenting with different cheese blends, as a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan can create a uniquely delicious topping.

Ingredients

For the Lasagna

12 lasagna noodles
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
24 ounces marinara sauce
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 egg
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start assembling the lasagna.

Instructions

Cook the Noodles

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.

Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, simmering for 10 minutes.

Mix the Ricotta Cheese

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, then a layer of the ricotta mixture, and a layer of mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serve warm with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Leftovers and Storage

Lasagna is known for its incredible leftovers, often tasting even better the next day. After preparing your ground beef lasagna, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed for up to four days, making it a fantastic option for meal planning.

To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm it in the oven. For best results, add a sprinkle of water to the dish before reheating to ensure that the pasta remains moist and delicious.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are numerous variations to try! Consider swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, to add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach. The key is to maintain the balance of flavors and textures, ensuring that every layer remains satisfying and scrumptious. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste, as lasagna is a versatile dish that can cater to everyone's preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.

→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze lasagna?

Yes! Freeze before baking. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.