Classic Lasagna

Tender lasagna noodles layered with savory ground beef tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, then baked until bubbling and golden.

Prep: 30 min · Cook: 75 min · Yield: 8 · Method: Oven

Ingredients

• 12 pieces lasagna noodles
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons italian seasoning
• 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 piece large egg
• 3 cups mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup parmesan cheese

Cooking instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until just tender. Drain and arrange them in a single layer so they do not stick. (about 15 min) — 375°F
2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Finely chop the onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. (about 5 min) — Medium heat
3. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and no longer pink, about 7 to 9 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. (about 9 min) — Medium heat
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of the salt, and the black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. (about 15 min) — Medium-low heat
5. In a bowl, stir together the ricotta, egg, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 cup mozzarella, and 1/2 cup Parmesan. (about 3 min)
6. Spread about 1 cup of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 noodles over the sauce. Spread with one-third of the ricotta mixture, then add about 1 cup meat sauce and sprinkle with 1/2 cup mozzarella. Repeat the layers twice, ending with noodles and the remaining sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. (about 8 min)
7. Cover the dish tightly with foil, tenting it so the foil does not touch the cheese. Bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for 15 to 20 minutes more, until bubbling and browned and the center reaches at least 165°F. (about 50 min) — 375°F
8. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm. (about 15 min)