Description
This Famous Three-Cheese Lasagna features layers of tender lasagna noodles, savory ground beef simmered in marinara sauce, and a rich blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Perfectly baked to achieve a bubbly, golden top, this classic Italian-American casserole makes a hearty and comforting main course ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or pasta sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra mozzarella and Parmesan for topping (about 1/2 cup each)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the lasagna.
- Cook Noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion softens. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Mix Ricotta Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, basil, salt, and black pepper thoroughly to create a smooth cheese mixture.
- Assemble Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer with lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Repeat these layers (sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake Covered: Cover the assembled lasagna with foil and bake for 25 minutes to heat thoroughly and meld the layers.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking to set the layers, making it easier to slice and serve.
Notes
- You can prepare the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking for convenience.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the meat sauce.
- Substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage to vary the flavor.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the meat or use a plant-based meat alternative.
