Classic Lasagna Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This classic lasagna offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures, from the rich meat sauce to the creamy cheese layers. It’s not only a delicious meal but also an easy dish to prepare, even for those new to cooking. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, as the flavors only improve the next day. Whether you're serving it on a chilly evening or at a family gathering, this hearty lasagna is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

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

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce

• 15-ounce can of water (use the tomato sauce can)

• 12-ounce can tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon oregano

• 1 teaspoon basil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 24 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (can use more)

• 16 ounces cottage cheese or ricotta cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 16 ounces lasagna noodles (about 15 noodles)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
   Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a large baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.

2. Make the Meat Sauce
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking for a few minutes until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain the excess fat, return the beef mixture to the pan, and add tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.

3. Cook the Noodles
   While the sauce simmers, cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse them, setting aside.

4. Layer the Lasagna
   In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Layer 5 lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a spread of cottage or ricotta cheese. Add a layer of meat sauce, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, then top with shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers, ending with a top layer of sauce and mozzarella cheese.

5. Bake
   Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil (sprayed with non-stick spray) and bake for 50-60 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese.

6. Serve
   Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Lasagna: Substitute the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a meatless version.

• Extra Cheesy: Increase the amount of mozzarella cheese for an extra cheesy dish.

• Ricotta Substitute: Use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese for a more traditional Italian flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook lasagna?

The lasagna will take about 1 hour and 10 minutes to cook, with an additional 10 minutes after removing the foil to brown the cheese.

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze lasagna?

Yes, lasagna freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What type of noodles are best for lasagna?

You can use traditional lasagna noodles or no-boil noodles for convenience. Both work well in this recipe.

Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, ricotta cheese is a more traditional choice for lasagna. It has a smoother texture, while cottage cheese adds a slightly different flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?

After cooking the noodles, rinse them with cold water and lay them out flat to prevent them from sticking together.

Can I add more meat to this lasagna?

Absolutely! You can add more ground beef or mix in sausage for extra flavor.

Is there a way to make this lasagna spicier?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or mix in some spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.

How do I know when the lasagna is done?

The lasagna is done when the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. You can insert a knife to check if it’s heated through.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or gouda, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Conclusion

This classic lasagna is a tried-and-true recipe that will satisfy your pasta cravings and leave everyone at the table happy. With its layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked noodles, it’s a meal that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this lasagna will be the star of the show. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal everyone will love!

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This Classic Lasagna recipe is a hearty and delicious comfort food that combines savory layers of seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese. It’s the ultimate family favorite, perfect for any gathering or a cozy dinner at home. The flavorful blend of mozzarella, ricotta (or cottage cheese), and Parmesan makes this lasagna a winner every time. Simple to prepare and perfect for leftovers, this easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a staple in your home.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce

15-ounce can of water (use the tomato sauce can)

12-ounce can tomato paste

1 teaspoon oregano

1 teaspoon basil

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

24 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (can use more)

16 ounces cottage cheese or ricotta cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

16 ounces lasagna noodles (about 15 noodles)

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Instructions

• Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a large baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

• Make the Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat, then return beef to the skillet. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.

• Cook the Noodles: While the sauce simmers, cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.

• Layer the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the prepared dish. Layer 5 noodles, followed by cottage or ricotta cheese. Add another layer of meat sauce, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, then top with shredded mozzarella. Repeat layers, ending with a top layer of sauce and mozzarella.

• Bake: Cover with aluminum foil (sprayed with non-stick spray) and bake for 50-60 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is browned and bubbly.

• Serve: Let lasagna sit for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes or microwave until heated through.

• Freezing: Lasagna can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.