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Delicious classic lasagna layered with meat sauce and cheese

Classic Lasagna

Classic Lasagna is a comforting dish with layers of noodles, savory beef, and rich cheeses, perfect for family gatherings and weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the pasta layers
  • 12 oz Lasagna noodles Use regular or gluten-free noodles.
For the meat sauce
  • 1 lb Ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
  • 2 cups Marinara sauce Use store-bought or homemade.
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing the onions and garlic.
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped Provides flavor for the sauce.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced Enhances the sauce flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt To taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper To taste.
For the cheese mixture
  • 15 oz Ricotta cheese Can substitute cottage cheese if needed.
  • 1 large Egg Helps bind the cheese mixture.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil, chopped Adds flavor to the ricotta mixture.
For the top layer
  • 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded For the gooey, cheesy topping.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Sprinkle on top for added flavor.
Spices
  • 1 tsp Basil For seasoning the meat sauce.
  • 1 tsp Oregano For seasoning the meat sauce.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
  5. Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, and oregano; let it simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, basil, and a pinch of salt.
Assembly
  1. In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by noodles, and then a layer of the ricotta mixture.
  2. Add a layer of mozzarella cheese and continue layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Baking
  1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  3. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop slices in the microwave or warm in the oven.