Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone together, Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce is the answer you’ve been craving. Each hearty layer, from the robust meat sauce to the gooey cheese and perfectly cooked noodles, delivers that nostalgic homemade flavor we all love. Whether it’s Sunday dinner, a cozy get-together, or just a special weeknight, this lasagna packs bold flavor, creamy texture, and saucy satisfaction with every single bite. Once you try this Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce, it will earn a spot in your regular recipe rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce comes together with just a handful of simple, common ingredients—nothing fancy, just the essentials that make this dish so comforting and familiar. Each ingredient plays a starring role, whether in depth of flavor, rich texture, or the irresistible golden color on top.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Provides that hearty, classic base for the meat sauce—choose leaner beef for less grease.
- Ground Italian sausage (½ lb): Adds bold spice and richness; use sweet or hot sausage to tailor the flavor.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Brings sweetness and savory undertones to the sauce.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds an aromatic kick—always sauté just until fragrant for best results.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 28-oz can): Forms the hearty, rustic bulk of the sauce for that signature tang.
- Tomato paste (2 6-oz cans): Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- Tomato sauce (1 15-oz can): Lends silkiness and pulls all the tomato components together.
- Water (½ cup): Keeps the sauce loose enough to soak into the noodles without drying out.
- Sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and rounds out the sauce.
- Dried basil (2 teaspoons): Offers a hint of sweetness and that unmistakable Italian aroma.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A sprinkle brings all those classic herb flavors in one go.
- Salt (1½ teaspoons, divided): Ensures every layer is perfectly seasoned.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Brings gentle warmth without overpowering the sauce.
- Mozzarella cheese (4 cups, shredded): Provides luscious melt and irresistible stretch in every bite.
- Ricotta cheese (1½ cups): Adds creamy, slightly tangy richness to each layer.
- Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated): Delivers nutty, salty depth and a finishing touch on top.
- Egg (1 large): Binds the ricotta mixture so it holds beautifully inside the lasagna.
- Lasagna noodles (12): The heart of the dish—cooked just to al dente for perfect texture.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): A pop of color and fresh flavor just before serving.
How to Make Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Start by browning the ground beef and Italian sausage with diced onion in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. You want the meat to develop a bit of color and the onions to soften—they’re your flavor foundation! Stir in the garlic and let it cook until fragrant, just about a minute. Once your kitchen smells amazing, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, water, sugar, dried basil, Italian seasoning, a teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Give everything a hearty stir and let it simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and become deeply flavorful. If you have extra time, simmering even longer only makes it better!
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
While your sauce is bubbling away, set a large pot of salted water on to boil for the lasagna noodles. Cook them according to the package directions—they should be al dente, not too soft, so they hold up during baking. As soon as they’re done, drain and immediately lay them flat on parchment paper or a large sheet of foil. This keeps them from sticking together and tearing when you assemble your Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the large egg, grated Parmesan, and the remaining half teaspoon of salt. Stir until blended and creamy. This mixture is what gives your lasagna those luxurious, creamy layers that mingle so perfectly with the sauce and cheese.
Step 4: Layer the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread one cup of the meat sauce across the bottom. Now, start layering: arrange 4 noodles over the sauce, then spread on one-third of the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle with a third of the mozzarella and spoon on a third of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with the last of the sauce and mozzarella on top for a glorious, golden cheese crown.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the assembled lasagna tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil (this is where the real magic happens) and bake another 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is bubbling and irresistibly golden brown. Remove the pan from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing—this helps everything set, so you get clean, beautiful slices of Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce every time.
How to Serve Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce
Garnishes
Once your lasagna has rested, scatter a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley over the top. This not only adds brilliant color but also a bright, fresh finish that balances the rich, cheesy layers. For a little extra flair, you can grate some extra Parmesan or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if your crowd likes a touch of heat.
Side Dishes
Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce is a true main event, but pairing it with just the right sides really makes the meal sing. A crisp, garlicky Caesar salad or a simple green salad tossed with Italian dressing is always a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget some warm, crusty bread or buttery garlic knots to soak up every last bit of that savory sauce! And for those extra special evenings, a glass of red wine rounds out the flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress at your next dinner party, try serving individual portions of lasagna in small ramekins for a personalized touch. Or, cut the lasagna into smaller squares and serve as an appetizer at gatherings—the layers look fantastic on a platter! However you choose to present, Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce is guaranteed to get oohs and aahs from your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover slices of Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce are almost better the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors will meld even further, making every bite even more delicious.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the assembled (but unbaked) lasagna tightly with foil and freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready, bake directly from frozen—just add about 20 extra minutes to the covered baking time. You can also freeze leftover baked portions in individual containers for quick weeknight dinners.
Reheating
For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Cover with foil to keep the cheese moist. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just go gently so those creamy layers stay luscious and don’t dry out.
FAQs
Can I make Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire lasagna up to a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. This makes it ideal for meal prep or entertaining—you’ll thank yourself for the head start!
What can I substitute for Italian sausage?
If you prefer, swap out the sausage for more ground beef, ground turkey, or even plant-based crumbles. The sausage adds extra flavor, but your lasagna will still be wonderful with any of these options.
Do I need to cook the noodles before assembling?
For this Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce, it’s best to cook the noodles first unless you’re using the no-boil variety, which can go straight into the dish. Just make sure your sauce is saucy enough if you use no-boil noodles so they don’t dry out during baking.
Can I add vegetables to the lasagna?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can all be sautéed and layered in for extra nutrition and amazing flavor. Just be sure to cook off any excess moisture so your lasagna isn’t soggy.
Why does the lasagna need to rest before slicing?
Letting your Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce rest gives the layers time to set, ensuring each piece comes out neatly rather than sliding apart. It also keeps the cheesy filling from running all over your plate.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce is a true labor of love, but every step rewards you with hearty, melty, saucy perfection. If you’ve longed for that nostalgic Italian-American comfort, this recipe delivers it in every forkful. Don’t wait—invite your favorite people, pour a glass of wine, and share the magic of homemade lasagna tonight!
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Classic Lasagna with Meat Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic lasagna with meat sauce. Layers of lasagna noodles, rich meat sauce, three types of cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley come together in this hearty Italian-American favorite.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ lb ground Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 (6 oz) cans tomato paste
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1½ teaspoons salt (divided)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Meat Sauce: Brown ground beef, sausage, and onion. Add garlic, then stir in tomatoes, paste, sauce, water, sugar, herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer.
- Cook Noodles: Boil lasagna noodles, drain, and lay flat.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, and salt.
- Assemble Lasagna: Layer sauce, noodles, cheese mixture, and mozzarella; repeat. Top with mozzarella.
- Bake: Cover and bake, then uncover to brown. Rest before serving. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- You can prepare the meat sauce a day ahead for deeper flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute part of the beef with ground turkey.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/12 of pan)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 760 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
