Ground Beef Lasagna is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. Layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella cheese create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is hard to resist. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This ground beef lasagna recipe stands out for its incredible flavor and straightforward preparation. The savory ground beef is perfectly seasoned and simmered in a homemade marinara sauce, which elevates the dish beyond typical lasagna. The creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella add a luxurious richness that pairs beautifully with the al dente pasta. Additionally, this recipe is adaptable to various dietary preferences and allows for make-ahead convenience, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Tips and Tricks
- Meat Browning: Ensure you brown the ground beef thoroughly to develop deep flavors. Don’t rush this step. Use a non-stick skillet or cast iron for optimal results.
- Pasta Pre-Cooking: If using traditional lasagna noodles, consider slightly undercooking them before layering. They will absorb some sauce while baking, resulting in perfectly tender pasta.
- Layering: Start and end with a layer of sauce to prevent the noodles from becoming dry. This also helps in achieving a beautiful golden crust on top.
- Resting Time: Let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes after baking before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Make Ahead Tips
- Assemble Ahead: You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Cover it tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking cold.
- Freezing: Lasagna freezes beautifully! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to three months.
- Pre-Cooked Ingredients: The meat sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for a month.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a veggie-packed delight.
- Cheese Variations: Try adding different cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meat sauce for some heat.
How to Serve
To serve your lasagna, carefully cut it into squares with a sharp knife, allowing the layers to stay intact. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad dressed in vinaigrette and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or a bold Zinfandel complements the savory flavors of the lasagna beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a refreshing iced tea or lemonade can balance the richness of the dish. For dessert, consider a light tiramisu or panna cotta to finish the meal on a sweet note.
How to Store
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze it, portion it out into single servings and wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave for a quicker option.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large skillet for browning meat
- Mixing bowls for cheese layers
- Aluminum foil for covering while baking
- Sharp knife for cutting and serving
Dietary Adaptations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or zucchini slices as a substitute.
- Dairy-Free: Replace ricotta with cashew cheese or tofu blended with nutritional yeast, and use dairy-free mozzarella.
- Nut-Free: Ensure any substitutes for cheese do not contain nuts, and use certified nut-free products.
Seasonal Adaptations
- Summer: Incorporate fresh vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a vibrant summer twist.
- Winter: Use hearty winter greens like kale or Swiss chard along with roasted root vegetables for a comforting version.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use no-boil noodles? Yes! No-boil noodles are a great time saver, but ensure there’s enough sauce to cook them properly.
How long should I bake the lasagna? Bake at 375°F for about 45 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Can I make this lasagna without meat? Absolutely! Simply replace the beef with your favorite vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives.
How To Make ground beef lasagna recipe
Ground Beef Lasagna
Ground Beef Lasagna is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12-15 lasagna noodles (or as needed)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and brown it, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the grated Parmesan and a pinch of salt.
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions if using traditional noodles. Drain and set aside.
- In a 9x13 baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Layer noodles on top, followed by the ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and more meat sauce.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and mozzarella.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 553Total Fat 23gSaturated Fat 11gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 92mgSodium 700mgCarbohydrates 48gFiber 4gSugar 6gProtein 38g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Ground beef lasagna is a timeless dish that can be enjoyed year-round, perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal. With its layers of flavor and satisfying texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Remember to play around with variations and adaptations to make it truly your own. Enjoy the process of cooking and the joy of sharing this delicious meal with your loved ones!
