This Oven-Baked Beef and Cheese Lasagna is a true crowd-pleasing comfort dish. A slow-simmered, herb-seasoned meat sauce layered with a creamy ricotta and egg mixture creates the perfect balance of savory beef and melty cheese. It’s a timeless Italian-American classic that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
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1 lb ground beef
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Layers
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9 lasagna noodles
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15 oz ricotta cheese
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1 large egg
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3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess grease.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles and Ricotta Mixture
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese and egg until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
Base Layer
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
First Layer
Place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly on top, then sprinkle with one-third of the mozzarella and one-third of the Parmesan.
Second Layer
Add another 3 noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, another one-third of the mozzarella, and one-third of the Parmesan.
Top Layer
Place the final 3 noodles on top. Spread the remaining meat sauce evenly over the noodles and finish with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Step 4: Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
Tips for Best Results
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Let the meat sauce simmer fully for deeper flavor
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Use whole-milk ricotta for a creamier texture
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Allow resting time before slicing for clean layers
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Lasagna also freezes well for up to 2 months.