This traditional Meat Lasagna features layers of rich meat sauce, tender lasagna noodles, creamy ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. It's a hearty Italian comfort food perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Servings
8–10 servings
Preparation Time
- Prep: 30 minutes
- Cook: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total: About 1 hour 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- ½ lb (225 g) Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (28 oz / 800 g total) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
For the Cheese Filling
- 15 oz (425 g) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Assembly
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and sausage.
- Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon.
- Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add:
- Onion
- Garlic
Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in:
- Crushed tomatoes
- Tomato paste
- Oregano
- Basil
- Thyme
- Salt
- Pepper
- Red pepper flakes
- Sugar
Mix well.
Simmer the Sauce
- Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Cook uncovered for 30–40 minutes.
The sauce should become thick and rich.
Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook noodles according to package instructions.
- Drain and rinse briefly with cool water.
- Lay flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
If using oven-ready noodles, skip this step.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl combine:
- Ricotta cheese
- Egg
- Parmesan cheese
- Parsley
- Salt
Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
Layer 1
Spread 1 cup meat sauce on the bottom.
Layer 2
Arrange 3–4 lasagna noodles.
Layer 3
Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture.
Layer 4
Add 1 cup meat sauce.
Layer 5
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese.
Repeat layers two more times.
Final Layer
Top with:
- Remaining noodles
- Remaining meat sauce
- Remaining mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
Step 6: Bake
- Cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil.
- Bake another 20–25 minutes.
The lasagna is ready when:
- Cheese is melted and golden
- Sauce is bubbling around the edges
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
- Remove from oven.
- Let rest for 15–20 minutes.
This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with:
- Fresh basil
- Fresh parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Serve with:
- Garlic Bread
- Caesar Salad
- Roasted vegetables
Chef's Tips
For Extra Flavor
Use a mixture of ground beef and Italian sausage.
For a Richer Sauce
Simmer the meat sauce for up to 1 hour.
Make Ahead
Assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Freezer Friendly
Freeze assembled lasagna before baking for up to 3 months.
Storage
Refrigerator
Store covered for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 500–650
- Protein: 30–35 g
- Carbohydrates: 35–45 g
- Fat: 25–35 g
- Fiber: 3–5 g
This classic Meat Lasagna delivers layers of savory meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta for a rich, satisfying Italian meal that's perfect for gatherings or weekend dinners.
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