Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of seasoned ground beef and a robust tomato sauce creates a depth of flavor that's both comforting and indulgent.
• Creamy and Cheesy: A luscious cheese sauce made from mozzarella adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the meat and pasta layers.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This lasagna serves multiple portions, making it an excellent choice for family meals or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 kg ground beef mince
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon beef stock
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Cape Malay cook-in sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons plain flour

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 cups milk

• ¼ cup mozzarella cheese, grated

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 250 grams lasagna sheets

Directions

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

   • Preheat the oven to 180ºC (350ºF).
   • Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion, crushed garlic, paprika, and oregano; cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
   • Add the ground beef mince to the pan and cook until browned.
   • Stir in tomato paste, Cape Malay sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef stock. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and let simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

   • In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in plain flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
   • Gradually whisk in milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
   • Season with salt and pepper, then add ¼ cup of grated mozzarella cheese, stirring until the cheese melts completely.

3. Assemble the Lasagna:

   • Lightly grease a baking dish. Spread ½ cup of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
   • Place a layer of lasagna sheets over the sauce.
   • Add a layer of meat sauce over the pasta, followed by a layer of cheese sauce.
   • Repeat the layers (lasagna sheets, meat sauce, cheese sauce) until all components are used, ending with a cheese sauce layer on top.
   • Sprinkle the remaining grated mozzarella cheese over the top layer.

4. Bake:

   • Place the assembled lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the dish is cooked through.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian lasagna.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers to the meat sauce for an extra spicy flavor.
• Cheese Alternatives: Incorporate ricotta cheese into the cheese sauce for added creaminess, or use a blend of Italian cheeses like provolone and Parmesan for a richer taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the lasagna to cool to room temperature, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the cooled lasagna in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, preheat the oven to 180ºC (350ºF), cover the lasagna with foil, and bake until heated through, approximately 20-25 minutes. Individual portions can be microwaved on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.

FAQs

1. How can I prevent my lasagna from becoming watery?

Ensure that the meat sauce is thickened adequately before assembling the lasagna. Additionally, avoid overcooking the lasagna sheets, as they will continue to absorb moisture during baking.

2. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?

Yes, no-boil lasagna noodles can be used. Ensure that there's enough sauce to cover the noodles adequately, as they will absorb moisture during baking.

3. Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. This allows the flavors to develop even more.

4. How do I get a golden, crispy top on my lasagna?

For a crispy, golden top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking and let the cheese brown. You can also broil it for a few minutes for extra crispiness.

5. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of your lasagna.

6. What’s the best way to cut lasagna without it falling apart?

Let the lasagna rest for at least 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut into neat portions.

7. How can I make this lasagna gluten-free?

Use gluten-free lasagna sheets and substitute the plain flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

8. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.

9. Can I add red wine to the sauce?

Yes, adding a splash of red wine to the meat sauce while simmering enhances its depth of flavor.

10. What should I serve with lasagna?

Lasagna pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Classic Beef Lasagna is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that never goes out of style. Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers rich flavors, creamy textures, and a satisfying experience. Try it out and let us know how it turns out!