Classic Beef Lasagna

Indulge in a taste of classic comfort with this hearty and satisfying Beef Lasagna recipe! Perfect for a cozy night in with the family or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cans (6 ounces each) tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups ricotta cheese

Instructions:

• In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.
• Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, basil, pepper, and oregano. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Preheat oven to 375°F.
• In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer one-third of the meat sauce, half of the noodles, half of the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers.
• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 25 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted.
• Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 450
Total Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 850mg
Total Carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 30g

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A: Yes, you can certainly substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

• Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

A: Absolutely! Fresh herbs will add a more vibrant flavor to the dish. Just remember to use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.

• Q: Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.

• Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftover lasagna for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

• Q: How can I make this lasagna vegetarian?

A: You can swap out the ground beef for crumbled tofu or lentils for a tasty vegetarian alternative.

Helpful tips:

• Layer the lasagna with a thin coating of sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
• Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting to allow it to set.
• Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
• Add a layer of sautéed vegetables for extra texture and nutrition.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the noodles until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy in the oven.
• Letting the meat sauce simmer for longer will deepen the flavors.
• Use a combination of both shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan for a well-rounded cheesy flavor.
• Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Try adding a layer of creamy béchamel sauce in addition to the cheese layers for extra richness.