Easy Beef Lasagna: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic

Lasagna. Just the word conjures images of bubbling cheese, rich sauce, and comforting layers of pasta. While some lasagna recipes can be intimidating, this easy beef lasagna recipe is designed for weeknight cooking without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 9 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or regular)
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour for a richer flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Make the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to package directions until al dente. No pre-cooking is needed for oven-ready noodles.
5. Layer the Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with three lasagna noodles, overlapping as needed. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat Layers: Repeat layers: meat sauce, three lasagna noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, and another one-third of the mozzarella cheese.
7. Final Layer: Top with the remaining lasagna noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and the remaining mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.
9. Rest: Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to cut.

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with crumbled vegetarian ground beef or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, Monterey Jack, or Asiago.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a little heat.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be added to the ricotta mixture or sprinkled on top of the finished lasagna.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the lasagna ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade beef lasagna! It’s sure to become a family favorite.