Classic Meat Lasagna Recipe | Rich, Cheesy Homemade Italian Lasagna
Lasagna is one of Italy's most beloved comfort foods, featuring layers of tender pasta sheets, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and melted mozzarella cheese baked until golden and bubbling. This Classic Meat Lasagna recipe delivers authentic homemade flavor with a hearty beef and Italian sausage ragù, smooth béchamel or ricotta mixture, and plenty of gooey cheese. Every bite is packed with rich tomato sauce, savory meat, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta.
The secret to exceptional lasagna is building flavorful layers. A slow-simmered meat sauce made with ground beef, Italian sausage, onions, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian herbs creates a rich foundation. Creamy ricotta mixed with Parmesan, egg, and parsley adds a smooth, velvety texture, while generous layers of mozzarella melt beautifully into every slice.
Although it requires a little time to assemble, Classic Meat Lasagna is ideal for family dinners, holiday gatherings, potlucks, and meal prep because it tastes even better the next day. It pairs perfectly with garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Whether you're preparing a cozy Sunday dinner or entertaining guests, this homemade Classic Meat Lasagna delivers restaurant-quality flavor with hearty layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and irresistible melted cheese.
Cooking Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, cooking until browned.
- Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Prepare the Cheese Filling
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and salt.
Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles.
- Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Add one-third of the meat sauce.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers two more times.
- Finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake
- Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
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